just got as new model 53 with 8 3/8 barrel. has inserts from factory. my 22 lr rounds are too tight going in. inserts have been cleaned good and slick on inside. i tried a cci birdshot stainless case and it fits perfect. lr's with brass case too tight. i tried rem. and winchesterbrass. too tight. any ideas. i know there are model 53 experts there. thanks

I had issue with the rims on the inserts being to thick. There were some aftermarket ones made I believe Numrich sold them that are known to have issues. If it is a case of the rounds not fitting in the inserts. but the inserts fit the cylinder and frame then one could polish the insides until they do fit. They come up for sale off and on, but no guaranties if they will work either. Might be better to deal with your known issue.

sorry-- how would you polish inside of inserts

Well a bore brush with steel wool wrapped around or a mop with lapping compound. There are probably other ways as well. It would depend on how much you need to open them up.

Or rent a 22lr cylinder and ream them just like you would a tight K 22 cylinder. 22 LR Cylinder - 4D Reamer Rentals $34

I've owned over 100 Model 53 factory inserts and never had a problem. I think you have a set of after market inserts.

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Don Mundell

I don't have any Remington 22.. but my Winchester have to be pushed into my Mdl. 17.. anything Federal drops right in.

I don't use Winchester "garbage" 22's..

Try some Federal.

figured it out. wasn't the inserts but the ammo. winchester and remington too tight. cci and federal works great. thanks guys for all the help. i might be 65 but i am young to s&w revolvers. so glad to be a member of this forum

Yep.. the bullets from Winchester are oversize and just don't work well in revolvers..IMO...

Instead of fixing a problem that doesn't exist, try better ammo first.

But he did say there was a problem... Glad it was figured out without issues. 22LR rifles or pistols are ammo sensitive.