i have an older model 14 that ive done a bit of work on and im attempting to fit a new old style extractor. I got it to fit into the cylinder and ultamately close into the frame (headspace) but im having a heck of a time trying to file the ratchets to the proper dimensions so that it'll work with the hand. is there a special tool other than a file that would help me? or any suggestions other than take it to a gunsmith because id like to try it myself thanks all

i believe i read somewhere that smith and wesson uses some sort of cutter type tool in place of the hand to cut the ratchets. does anyone know if this is true or where i might find one

S&W uses a tool like you describe to make the initial cut on the ratchets. After that they use a Barrett file to make final adjustments. You probably won't find that tool anywhere outside of the S&W factory. You can use just the Barrett file to cut your ratchets. There may be something in the FAQ's on this. Better to have it done bysome one who has done this before. It is very easy to remove too much from the ratchets.