For years I have had a '50s I-frame .32 Regulation Police. It's a great shooter and perfect for my kids. Not long ago I noticed some play in the action and stripped the piece to find the hammer stud has sheared. I believe S&W will not repair such an old piece. Any recommendations on a shop who can do this work? Thanks!

Cylinder & Slide Shop.
245 E. 4th Street
Fremont, NE 68026
(402) 721-4277
http://www.cylinder-slide.com/

Thanks for the recommendation of C&S. I called them today and they are booked for the next 6-8 months. I then called S&W who recommended David Chicoine at Old West Gunsmith in Gastonia, NC. After reviewing his website and speaking with him on the phone, I feel he may be the best bet to handle this repair. And he's only booked up for around 4 months...

I guess S&W confirmed they wouldn't work on the pistol?

When I said late I-frame, the rep said too old. I suppose you wouldn't take your '57 Chevy down to the local Chevy dealer for maintenance. It's not fuel injected and computerized...

David told me broken studs were quite common on the I- and early J-frames in that the hole in the sideplate that received the stud was not a very tight fit which allowed the stud to flex, and over time, eventually shear. I guess right at 50 years qualifies as 'over time'. Anyway, David and his son seem to have a good handle on all varieties of S&Ws and will hopefully be able to provide a reasonable (not exceeding the value of the pistol...) repair. See his site:

Old West Gunsmith