Correcting endshake in top-break .44

Carmoney · #1 03-25-2011, 06:17 PM

I have a nice shooter-grade .44 DA First Model that has a bit more endshake than I'm comfortable with.

Seems like this would be an easy fix if anybody manufactures an endshake bearing with the correct dimensions. Anybody know if such a thing is available? I don't think any of the regular S&W bearings would work, but I'm wondering if the Ron Power endshake bearings for Colt SAA might fit?

Lacking that, how do I go about fixing the endshake on this old gun?

Thanks,
Mike

Carmoney · #2 03-28-2011, 05:29 PM

Can anyone help with this?

haggis · #3 03-29-2011, 12:08 AM

Mike,

I've never stripped one of the early top breaks, but if it's built so that properly sized shims would work, you can probably stretch the center pin, assuming it's hollow.

As you go looking for shims, remember that the yoke shims on a S&W are another size alternative.

Buck

50 target · #4 03-29-2011, 08:22 PM

Carmoney, you might want to try and locate a copy of Dave Chicoine's book of gunsmithing the old west sixguns. It might have something in it or just call and talk to him about it.
Good luck
Bob

Masterpiece · #5 03-30-2011, 05:30 AM

Mike,

I also think contacting Dave Chicoine will be your best way to go!! He & his son do alot of work on these Early Smiths and should be able to help with no problem. It's nearly impossible to contact him by phone,but try contacing him at his email ([email protected]). He'll be more than happy to help you out. He also does excellent gunsmithing if your repair goes beyond your expertise. He should also have any parts you need to make it right.

Take Care!!

delta-419 · #6 03-30-2011, 10:47 AM

David did a great job on my .44-40 Frontier that had endshake plus a lot of other problems. It came back to me like a new shooter.

rhmc24 · #7 04-01-2011, 06:51 AM

You can make a shim-washer and put it under the "star" which will push the cylinder forward & take up the B/C gap. Too thick a washer will cause the button at the center of the star to scrub against the recoil shield.

Good as it is, Chicoine's book has next to nothing on this model. Hopefully his next edition will cover a couple of the most common fixes such as this and full cock fix.