I internet-bought a used Model 18-3, advertised as 99% and I agree. Internals look mint too, except the cylinder stop is messed up, looks like it was "fitted" by a blacksmith. When cycling the gun, the CS drops down as you start to pull the trigger or cock the hammer, then it pops up again almost immediately and sometimes won't let the cylinder rotate.
After cleaning everything, removing the CS and checking for burrs or gunk, and re-assembling; the problem is still there.
Planning to take the easy-but-pricey solution, I called S&W today and explained the problem. The nice lady there sent me a FedEx call tag and instructions for shipping. But when I asked her how long it would be before I got the gun back, she said six MONTHS!
Does anyone know if that's a reasonable estimate?
More importantly, does anyone know of a good S&W smith around Chicago, preferably McHenry county? There are a modest number of "gunsmiths" in our area but they are mostly Glock/AR15 parts changers, not real gunsmiths. Hoping for a reference...