Well if I can't find a 058 Topper .357 mag, can I build one?

[Maddog69]

1.  I have a set of straight grip stocks I bought on the classifieds a year ago, are stocks universal, will they fit older iron (Topper), SB1 and SB2 frames?

2.  I see color case hardened frames in the classifieds (Iron and or SB1 or 2) - can a new .357 barrel or a stubbed .357 barrel be fitted to all of the three receiver types?

3.  Are there weight differences between the three receiver types?

Please provide me with your thoughts if I am off base or provide me with your opinion on how to build a .357.

Thanks

Robert

[rdlange]

Lots of us have 357 mag/maxi on SB2 frames.  Note that the newer barrels are heavier.  Maybe try to find a Talo 357 easier.  Stocks will any fit any receiver I have.  Some of mine I rasped straight. 

LUK with your project.  Keep looking.  I generally find what I desire, just being patient. 

[Maddog69]

Is the Topper 058 .357 lighter than current SB-2 and SB1 models?

Robert

[Jeff H]

Is the Topper 058 .357 lighter than current SB-2 and SB1 models?

Robert

The new barrels are heavier.  If you have a reciever to which H&R is willing to fit a barrel, that would be an easy way to get one fitted without wondering if a second-hand barrel is going to fit or require some effort on your part.  Picking one up second-hand has been a nearly fruitless endavor for me.  I was ready to send my reviever in when one (newer one reamed to max) came up and I caught it.
 
If you sendit in for a .357 barrel, you could get that 20 gauge barrel at the same time if you want a combo. 
 
I am going the route of building mine as you mention.  I am keeping an eye out for a new "Timvention" that allows one to replicate the old contours on a newer barrel with a 4" angle grinder and some bicycle parts.

[Doublebass73]

I thought about building one a few years ago but I lucked out and found a factory one. The older ones are a lot lighter due to the slim barrel contour. Mine weighs 6 lbs. even with a 22" barrel and wood stocks.

[quickdtoo]

I have a model 158 30-30 barrel on a modern SB2 frame, it weighs 6lbs-8½oz as you see it. Seems to me the vintage cast iron frame is lighter than modern SB1 cast iron frames, and SB2 frames are lighter than SB1, frame weights are listed in the FAQs.

Tim

[Maddog69]

Thanks for the good information. I have scoured the Internet with no results but will continue to keep looking.  Maybe I'll get lucky.

Robert

[theratdog]

check your local pawn shops i got a 20 guage and fit a 357 barrel to it .100 bucks for the gun already had the barrel was swapping with my 44 mag. shoots great.keep looking there out there.

[jeepmann1948]

The 357 Mag/ Max barrels responds very well to circumcising 
 A 16 1/2" barrel is a very easy to carry and a delight to shoot.
 The current barrels can also be turned for even more weight reduction.While The barrel can be bobbed at home with no problems or special tools, turning the outside down requires the services of a lathe however.The forearm attachment will also have to be removed and reinstalled.
 The good new is by cutting the barrel length down you gain velocity .The bullet reaches its maximun velocity in 16".
 Check out this chart from Ballistics by the inch.

http://www.ballisticsbytheinch.com/357mag.html
 The young man in my profile pic swears by his ultra light 357. It works so well I had to build his sister one for her first hunt this year.I am more excited than she is ( and she is really really ready )It is great being  a Grandpa!!
Good Luck with your project, if you have any questions just ask
George
 

[gendoc]

It is great being  a Grandpa!!

i 2nd that mitey fine statement george.............