I was considering disconnecting the key safety lock in a 500 mag, j frame, and other revolvers. Does it make it less reliable? Can it somehow fail after it’s disconnected and lock the gun or cause an accidental discharge?

All mine have the flag removed. Does not affect reliability

It is a very bad idea to disable the lock. If you don’t want the lock, remove it, and install a plug if so inclined. You are not the last owner of your gun. While you may never sell it, your heirs may not feel the same. The problem is that a gun with a disabled lock may fall into the hands of someone who believes the lock is functioning. Once that happens, the prospect for a tragedy is in full force.
Either leave the lock alone, or remove it. Don’t disable the lock and leave it in place.

My s&w guns are range guns so no lock will be disconnected. If the lock is ever discontinued by s&w the guns with the locks will be sought after by collectors. They will pay dearly for the lock guns I’m sure.

Must be my old age, but I just can't bring myself to care whether the lock is there or not. It does not affect function, so it is a non issue.

I doubt lock guns will be collectible because of the presence of the lock.

At best, they will be curiosities emblematic as a peculiarity of the late 1990’s.

What you seek OP is the "Lock Delete" from Original Precision... I have 3 of J.D's lock delete kits and they are wonderful at getting rid of that ugly hole and they do it well. With the lock deleted/plugged and the flag removed there is no chance of it ever causing a reliability problem.

As said before, non-issue. Do what you want!

I had to look that up. Googled that name and found his page. If my 617 comes back working correctly from S&W repair I will purchase one and install it. Looks great.

This is all you need to remove.. The keyway is behind the bolt and will not go anywhere..

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