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February 24, 2009
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hello gents,
I bought my DW model 15 back in the mid 90s from my father in law
he bought it new some time in the mid to late 70s i believe.
ser # 12251x.
any way I have always loved the purple plum color of the frame.
i have been told by a few smiths that this happends when the frame is made of a better quality / stronger steel.
Does any else on the forum have a plumb colored frame ?
any insite would be great.
Thanks, roland
February 2, 2009
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Many of the early guns are plum, unless they have been kept unfired in a safe. DW used a molded metal powder process to make their frames, this was cheaper than forging large blocks of steel. The powder was superheated and molded under high pressure, forming solid metal castings. These were extensively tested and found to be as strong or stronger than forged pieces. The process, however reacts differently with hot bluing and over time and atmospheric exposure, it turns plum. The Dan Wessons are rated as strong or stronger than Ruger revolvers, which are considered the industry standard for strength.
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January 24, 2009
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Rob, that's the best explanation for a Barney* gun I've heard so far. 
Roland, is that a stainless barrel on your gun, or just the camera angle?
Regardless, it looks great.
*Disclaimer; "Barney gun" is my own little nickname for the plum frames, no offense meant.
LOL!
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February 9, 2009
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Rob,
I appreciate the explanation as well for the plum guns.
Charger, my sons and I have adopted the "Barney" gun name for them. It fits so well.
SMF
A man cannot have too many SuperMags
February 24, 2009
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charger,
I like the "Barney" frame nickname. never heard that before.
Yep, its a stainless shroud, the rest of the assy is blue.
not the best pic, it is of a picture I took of a picture with the digital.
Rob, thanks for the detailed explanation. I have known for years that the dan wesson platform was as solid as most rugers. and IMHO, more accurate. 
Roland
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January 24, 2009
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Well good, I can go to be happy tonight knowing I've helped with the DW nomenclature in my own small way. LOL!
December 17, 2008
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A simple identifier successfully transcends normal speech and enters the pantheon of famous phrases: "Barney gun"...right up there with "Scotch tape"...
Nice "coining job" there Charger! 
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