You are correct in your assumption that a forged part would not have done this, but chances are a replaced part with an inspection to see if there is something else mechanically wrong with the gun to cause the initial problem will solve the problem and you'll never experience it again. If there is a mechanical issue, a forged part may well have created other problems. I seriously doubt that any parts other than MIM are available.

MIM has been in production for several years and the number of problems from it have been very small in number. The only concern I have with the process is time. Time is something manufacturers can't test for. I collect 1:24 model die cast cars. Many cars made years ago are experiencing what is termed 'paint rash', where the paint is bubbling from reaction to the cast metal beneath it. In severe cases, cars are literally crumbling away. This is something that took years to discover. I hope that MIM parts don't do something 20, 50 or even 100 years from now.

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So many S&W's, so few funds!!