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Didn’t think you would (go my way). Few do, but after a half-century of experience I can tell you there is a difference.
Smith and Wesson currently make four sizes of frames, and all of their revolvers are based on one of them (excluding a reproduction of an 1870’s period revolver called the “Schofield” that is of no concern to you).
The “J” frame is the smallest. Think of guns in the models 36, 37, 42, 48 etc. series. Usually 5-shot snubbies.
The “K” frame is next. It originated in 1902 and was designed around the .38 Special cartridge. Think of models like 10, 13, 15, 19, etc.
The “K” frame proved to be a little light for continued use of .357 Magnum cartridges in models 19 and 66 so in 1980 they introduce the “L” frame, that is close to the Colt Python in size. Think of models in the 86 series (586, 686, etc.)
Finely there is the “N” frame, which was introduced in 1907. While a few .38 Specials were built on this frame years ago it is now used for .357 Magnums and larger 41, 44 and 45 bore models. (27, 57, 29, 25 etc.)
Sometimes a frame may be identified with a “T” such as JT, KT, etc. The “T” indicates adjustable target sights.
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