I had been looking for a 3” Model 696 in 44 Spl for a while when one showed up on GB. It was missing the yoke was the only problem listed in description. Weird but seller had good feedback so I bought it. Really good price. What he failed to disclose was the cylinder had major damage. Not only did it have several cuts in the metal which were obviously made but a saw or other tool. It gad been dropped or hit with something and one of the holes was flattened a little. Ruined. Of course seller wouldn’t make it good and after I filed a complaint with GB and went back and forth for 3-4 months, I finally realized this was a waste of time. Looked everywhere but no cylinders were available. Was able to find a Model 69 cylinder from S&W so I took a chance even though it was slightly longer. Took it to Master gunsmith Jim Kelly and he was able to remachine the barrel and forcing cone and then fit the cylinder with a perfect .004 Gap. Jim has been a friend for many years and really doesn’t personally work on revolvers much any more, but as a favor and he also likes a challenge, now I have a perfectly great shooting gun. Actually a step better since now it will shoot 44mags as well. Doubt many magnums will be shot in the gun other than the ones he used test firing, but with a slight tweak to the action, I now have a better gun than one I originally wanted. Only negative was the new cylinder came with a heavy bead blasted finish, but some time spent with Mother’s Mag and I almost have them matching. Forgive the dirty gun burnt just came in from putting anpbout a 100 rounds through it.

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Congrats, happy endings are great. Great looking revolver.

You have a great gunsmith and friend.

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Pine_Worker
Ex-LEO, NRA Life

One of one 696 44 magnum. Awesome

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No gold. Only lead. Bobby

Congrats on getting your gun put in tip top shape.

I have run into disclosure incidents on GB, and do my best to stay away from online buying. I pretty much look at it like if I cannot get it off this site, I do not need it. With rare exception

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Pete
I ain't no fortunate son

Jim Kelly is an artist! The other guys at Darlington Gun Works are great as well.

It’s the only issue I’ve had before and since. Of course I was disappointed in the seller, but more disappointed in GB for not backing up their policy concerning seller fraud. It was an absolute waste of time filing a complaint.

You are correct. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jim since the 70’s and some of his Double Barrel Shotgun restorations I’ve seen through the years have been breath taking.

I think that's pretty cool.

Even though it started out as an issue, you came out ahead in the end.

That doesn't happen too often.

I like it, I think it looks great.

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Un-Reconstructed Southerner

What started as a nightmare turned into a dream. Well done by your GS friend. Sorry to hear about your GB experience, that’s not a good sign at all for their customer service. If you get the chance, can you PM the sellers name so I don’t do business with them please?