I had been cautioned against releasing the slide on unloaded semi-automatics but no one (manuals included) had ever told me that I could also hurt my baby S&W's by snapping the cylinder home.
Karder: I agree - the King Cobra is a very fine weapon. We found it at a pawn shop for $450, got them down to $400. I don't think they knew what they had. It was (and still is) in near-perfect condition. A friend of ours offered us a Python for $500...but we couldn't accept. Missing those gosh darn serial numbers, wouldn't ya' know.
Back on the King Cobra...I love shooting it. I love the trigger pull, I love the sound the hammer makes when it cocks if I decide to shoot single action, and I love the way .357s feel going through it. I wish my hands fit it - I would use it for carry if I didn't have to use both hands to do anything and everything with it.
Oldgringo: I know, it's not in my revolver manual either. I've never been cautioned about releasing the slide on an unloaded semi-auto. There's my third new thing today! Still, it's obvious when looking at a gun that hasn't been maintained and/or has been treated roughly that it does some damage. Makes me sad when I find a gorgeous revolver and I think I'm discovered a gem...only to check the cylinder and see it wiggle too much for comfort. :(