This makes sense to me, but what do I know???

[The Old Jaybird]

Two identical .38 spl revolvers, one is newer and tighter, one is older, cylinder has some front to back movement. The latter seems to shoot "softer" with the same ammo. Is that real? or just perceived?

Gasses going out wider cylinder gap reduces felt recoil?

Comments, your experiences, just an old guy babbling??

 

[Kahrnut]

Figment

 

[BIKER13]

we have experts that will tell you all about it

 

[mcdougmd]

It’s cause it’s broke in.

 

[jeep78]

Shoot both over a chronograph. Softer one is likely slower.

 

[Glorfindel]

Not reel

 

[The Old Jaybird]

What is the typical factory spec on cylinder gap on the .38 spl only, non .357 revolver?
This one is substantial, much more so than any of my others.

 

[wozeyjales]

Well I'm cornfused now, can't be of any help at all.
That's because right after stating the 2 revolvers
were identical the opening post then proceeds to
explain several differences. I'm befuzzled to begin
with by the fact a manufacturer would use the same
serial number on two revolvers!

 

[The Old Jaybird]

same model, same barrel length from same manufacturer

 

[Psilloh1]

That is a very common occurrence.. Typically, one is a left handed model.....