I posted this in the smithing section but no replies yet, so I will re-post it here:

I have a .38 Special S&W Hand Ejector M&P 4th change, which is a 5-screw, and I need the top side plate retaining screw, the one closest to the hammer.

I removed two different sideplate screws from my later-model (1977) K-38. I found they would not fit the old M&P's threaded holes. It appears the new screw threads are slightly larger in diameter than the old M&P screw hole. I did read something that S&W had changed thread sizes after WWII, so it appears that newer K-frame screws will not work. Nothing in Gun Parts/Numrich, Brownell's, or Midway like this. I saw in Poppert's there is a side plate screw for a S&W 1917 listed. Would it fit?

Does anyone have such a screw they would sell me? Or can anyone tell me where to get one?

DWalt,

Recheck Numrich. Go to Smith and Wesson, then Military and Police. I saw product no. 1405530A- sideplate screw (small round head, $4.45) and 339800A- sideplate screw, new replacement, blued (large head), $4.20.

Regards,

Keith

Yes, they changed screw size from a very slightly smaller .122" x 44 to #5 x 44 in 1942. I you can't find a screw, run a 5 x 44 tap in the hole to open threads to the new size.

__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819

I went back and looked at Gun Part's website, and found the top sideplate screw. Don't know how I missed it the first time. I also noticed that the sideplate screw shown for the Model 1917 S&W has the same GP part number, so they are probably identical.

Dwalt

I think I have some extra screws for a K-frame. If all else fails, let me know, and I can
try to find one that will fit my 1905's .

Mike Priwer [email protected]