It seems that if we study too many posts concerning the triangular demonic intersection of Headspace, Cylinder/barrel gap and Endplay, we can get into a quagmire that becomes difficult to decipher. Adjust one thing, and you've compromised the integrity of the others. Almost as bad as opening up a pre-war Colt, and trying to figure out what to do next. I've come to the conclusion that all these writers who champion the absolute minimal endplay in a revolver theory are doing so without thoroughly considering the importance of maintaining correct headspace. If we could absolutely count on ammo manufacturers maintaining correct case head thicknesses it would be one thing, but that is not the reality we live in. About all we can do is to maintain the minimum headspace tolerance of .060 and let the rest be whatever it is. I've now adjusted my Colt Trooper MK lll, and both of my early DW's to have exactly .060 headspace, and I'm able to fire any brand of .357 or .38 Special ammo without a hitch. My 1937 Colt Official Police .38 is unchanged from the day it was made with .062 headspace, so that speaks for itself. Don't ask me what the cylinder/barrel gap or endplay is on any of these revolvers, but due to the interchangeable barrels on the DW's I do tend to keep the gap on these on the tight side.

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