.32 Revolvers Chapter 8: S&W model 16-4

Written on December 22, 2013   By Tony   in Handguns, Revolvers

The S&W model 16-4 is a K-frame revolver chambered for the .32 H&R magnum cartridge. The dash 4 designation comes from the engineering changes incorporated since the dash 3 revolver. In this case, they are for the new chambering and the full under lug.

The 16-4’s where available with 4″ 6″ and 8 3/8″ barrels. Mine has a 6″ barrel. All barrel lengths had adjustable sights and “combat” grips like the ones you see on my revolver pictured below. My revolver was sent back to the factory after purchase and converted to single action only. This was a popular conversion for certain types of target shooting. Since I only shoot targets with the revolver anyways, and almost always fire such guns in single action mode, it didn’t bother me at all.

All model 16 revolvers are known for superb accuracy. the Model 16-4 is no exception, and my example shines. With 115 grain SWC bullets loaded at 900-1000 FPS, I’m not sure it’s actually possible to miss with the gun. It likes RN bullets as well, and wadcutters, and RNFP’s, and…. Well, it just seems to like everything.

Due to the weight, and the replacement cost, I don’t often carry the 16-4 in the field, and instead rely on a J-frame sized gun, or occasionally the Taurus 761. If I had a 4″ barreled version, perhaps I would carry it more often, but as it is, I’m perfectly happy using the 16-4 for target shooting and plinking, and using other guns for small game and trail duty.