Some random thoughts:
A friend wore out a Ruger Redhawk with 22.0gr 2400 and 240gr SWCBB commercial cast bullets. He worked at an isolated site in the New Mex desert and shot 4 or 5 days a week after work for a couple of years when on site. He had a Dillon 650 and had some steel targets set up at the toe of a hill. The face of the cylinder was spider webbed and the forcing cone and barrel butt was totally eroded. Ruger said they would replace bbl and cyl at his cost. His estimate was 5,000 rnds which sounded on the low side to me.
I shot a barrel loose on a Freedom Arms model 83 .475 Linebaugh – round count was right at 15,000.
I’ve had new Ruger single actions that were out of time from the factory, would dislodge center pin under recoil, and shear off ejector rod housing.
Also had three S&W Model 329s that required constant repairs.
Currently have five S&W M69s. One was binding and went back to S&W who “Repaired Yoke”. Round count around 12,000 – 13,000 thru four of them (too lazy to go look) and at least half have been with 24.0gr of H110 and 240gr JSPs.
Point being anything mechanical may be incorrectly assembled from the factory and will wear out, some sooner than others (even the same model). And like vehicles, some may also be lemons.
Yes, S&Ws are more fragile than the Rugers, Dan Wessons, BFRs and others. Some consider this a desireable trait. I take a bit different approach. I shoot those guns that I enjoy as much as I want using any ammo I want. If a gun needs maint or repairs, I get it done. If I am lucky, I’ll get to shoot enough to wear out a gun beyond repair. The older I get, the more I gravitate towards smaller, lighter guns. In double actions, that generally means S&Ws (L Frames and smaller for example the M69 .44 mag) and Freedom Arms Model 97s in single actions. I’d rather shoot/carry a 35-37oz M69 rather than a 62 oz .44 Mag BFR (3.86Lbs per their website) – again, personal preference.
I have Freedom Arms M83s, Ruger Super Redhawks and a Ruger Super Blackhawk .357 Max. and a 50th Anniv .44 Mag Flattop - however, these guns get less and less use as I get older.
I figure everyone should purchase the gun(s) that work for them and fill the needs that their circumstances dictate. Don’t just buy something because it is “stronger” without understanding the trade offs. Be honest with yourself about how many rounds and what type of rounds you will actually shoot.
Again, just random thoughts.
FWIW,
Paul