Questions about S&W frame sizes, and grip compatibility.....

[MIL-DOT]

(re-written for clarity and brevity.)
I have two sets of Herrett cocobolo grips, that are currently on two K-framed S&W's (Model10, Model 15).
The set currently on the model 10 used to be on a N-framed Model 28, but from what I understand, K and L frame grips are interchangable, N frames are not.
But I'm POSITIVE one of these used to be on a N-framed Model 28 "Highway Patrolman".
Something is obviously weird here. Does Herrett route their grips so they have increased frame compatibility? That's my best guess.
I dunno what's going on, any info is much appreciated.........

 

[UncleEd]

Look at the back of the N-frame grip. Does it looked modified, sanded down,
trimmed?

N frames sometimes can be modified to fit a K-L.

 

[Old Fuff]

K and L frame revolvers can use the same stocks. N frame frames have a larger handle, and therefore require different stocks. However the difference is small enough so someone might be able to alter a pair enough so they "sort of" fit a K or L frame, if they were oversized and wrapped around the frame at the front and bottom.

The S&W model 28 was based on the N frame, so stocks made for that size should fit correctly. If they have been altered to (somewhat) fit a smaller K or L size revolver this would no longer be the case.

 

[MIL-DOT]

Thanks guys. The grips haven't been sanded,trimmed or modified since being purchased new from CDNN several years ago. They fit perfectly on every pistol they've been on. They do fully wrap around the front and bottom, but the backstrap is exposed.
They're a full-sized target grip, that look identical to these below (but mine have the S&W medalion)
http://armorerssupply.com/handgun-g...-honduras-square-butt-grip-factory-style.html

 

[CraigC]

Grips would have to be K/L or N, not both.

 

[Old Fuff]

Without clear photographs I can't tell you much more, but CDNN is a clearing house for sometimes problem products. Herrett is a top-line stock maker, but maybe some got mis-marked as N when they should have been K/L.

This of course wouldn't explain why they apparently fit the model 28.

In any case if they work on whatever you want to use them on I wouldn't worry. And when ordering stocks always state the particular model gun or frame code.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

On a side note, K/L round butt frame grips will also fit on X frame revolvers.

 

[bannockburn]

I had an old mismatched pair of N frame grips that I reshaped and refinished to fit on my Model 686. I had to add some filler material on the inside of the grip to get them to fit on the smaller L frame.