Posted: 8/7/2005 2:35:54 PM EDT
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During a recent trip, I obtained an original Smith and Wesson Model 21 .44 Special revolver of 1952 vintage. I love the old N-frames, so this revolver is a real prize, and it makes this problem REALLY irritating.........  When I shoot it, the cylinder often advances beyond the distance it should, either engaging two cylinder positions beyond the fired case, or not locking at all. This happens roughly 50% of the times the trigger is pulled in double-action. It does not happen if the pistol is fired in single-action, but that is much less fun.  I THINK the cylinder stop at the bottom of the frame is not engaging when this happens. 1. Does that sound right to ya'll, or does this sound like a different problem? 2. Should the part be easy to replace with a current manufacture N-frame part, or am I going to have to do an annoying part hunt? TIA for your replies. |
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There is some chance that your problem could be that the old girl just needs a really detailed cleaning, inside more than out. Old oil can and will turn to something resembling varnish aver many years, and this just might be the issue here. If not, yes, it does sound to me as if the cylinder stop is not working correctly...but that can be caused by other parts not working correctly. What is happening with the hammer when it skips a chamber? In any case, this particular revolver is...IMO...too rare and too valuable to entrust to the local shade-tree gunsmith. I would send it either to S&W themselves or to the other guys recommended by dfariswheel...but I cannot recall the place just now 
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ikor, the hammer is doing its proper movement. I guess the firing pin isn't striking far enough into the chamber to catch on anything. Thanks for the advice, all. I'll be giving S&W a call tomorrow. [unrelated] Annoyingly, I have to call Kimber tomorrow as well. The front sight on my 6-month old TLE is now drift adjustable by hand  .Time to test out Kimber's customer service for myself. [/unrelated] |