Smith & Wesson Revolver Grips Guide: J, K & L Frame – Round vs Square Butt

Smith & Wesson Model 10 K/L frame square butt walnut grips

Smith & Wesson revolvers are built on different frame sizes, and grips are made for a specific frame – and a specific butt shape. Ordering the wrong frame is the most common mistake people make when they buy revolver grips. This guide explains the J, K and L frames, the difference between round butt and square butt, and which of our grips fits your revolver.

Step 1: Know your frame size

Frame Size Typical models
J Frame Small – compact 5-shot revolvers Model 36 Chiefs Special, 60, 642, 442
K Frame Medium – classic service revolvers Model 10, 13, 15, 19, 64, 65, 66
L Frame Medium-large – heavier .357 Magnum Model 586, 686

The K and L frames share the same grip frame, so K/L grips are made for both. J Frame grips are smaller and will not fit a K or L frame.

Step 2: Round butt or square butt?

Look at the bottom of the grip frame on your revolver:

  • Square butt: the bottom of the frame is squared off. Common on older K frame revolvers such as many Model 10s.
  • Round butt: the bottom of the frame is rounded. Standard on J frame revolvers and on most later K and L frame revolvers.

Square butt and round butt grips are not interchangeable, so check this before you order.

Step 3: Choose your grips

Your revolver Grips to choose
J Frame, round butt J Frame walnut grips (4 designs) or J Frame acrylic grips – white, black, red
K / L Frame, square butt (e.g. Model 10) K/L Frame square butt walnut grips
.357 Magnum revolvers .357 Magnum walnut grips

Own an S&W pistol instead? We also make grips for the 3913 and 6904 / 6906.

Not sure which frame you have? Send us a photo of your revolver on WhatsApp and we will tell you which grips fit.

Walnut or acrylic?

Walnut is the traditional choice for a classic S&W revolver: warm, natural grain and a comfortable hold. Our J Frame acrylic grips in white, black or red are for owners who want a bold, polished look – white grips are especially popular on nickel and gold-finished revolvers.

Frequently asked questions

Will Model 10 grips fit a Model 19 or 686?

The K and L frames share the same grip frame, so the fit depends on the butt shape. Our K/L grips are square butt – they fit square butt K and L frames, not round butt ones.

Are grip screws included?

Grips install with your revolver's original grip screw.

How long does shipping take to the USA?

Shipping is free worldwide. USA orders arrive in about 9 days (FedEx Express about 3 days, +$20) and ship DDP – all duties and import fees included, nothing to pay on delivery.

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