Quick Answer
The Ruger Vaquero and the Smith & Wesson Model 10 are known to have issues with cylinder binding in the .357 Magnum caliber, particularly when shooting full-house loads or heavy recoiling rounds. This is due to the design of the cylinder and the lack of a rebound slide in these models. Cylinder binding can cause misfires and jamming.
Lever Action Considerations
When choosing a lever action .357 Magnum rifle, consider the cylinder length and the type of ammunition you plan to use. A longer cylinder allows for more cartridges, but it can also increase the likelihood of cylinder binding. For example, the Marlin Model 1895 has a 7-round cylinder, but it’s more prone to binding than the Winchester Model 1886, which has a 6-round cylinder.
Specific Model Analysis
The Ruger Vaquero, which is a double-action revolver, is known to have issues with cylinder binding in the .357 Magnum caliber. This is due to the design of the cylinder, which does not have a rebound slide. When firing full-house loads or heavy recoiling rounds, the cylinder can bind, causing misfires and jamming. The Smith & Wesson Model 10 also has similar issues. On the other hand, the Winchester Model 1894 and the Marlin Model 336 are known to be reliable and do not have significant issues with cylinder binding.
Ammunition Considerations
When using a lever action .357 Magnum rifle, it’s essential to choose the right ammunition to minimize the risk of cylinder binding. Look for cartridges with a lower recoil and a shorter overall length. For example, the Speer 140-grain Gold Dot and the Hornady 158-grain XTP are good options. These cartridges have a lower recoil and a shorter overall length, making them less likely to cause cylinder binding.
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