J-Frame Double Action Trigger Pull Comparison

cjwils · #1 10-29-2015, 08:11 PM

What is the typical double action trigger pull weight of an unmodified j-frame? I am interested in comparing that to the trigger pull weight of some double-action-only pocket sized semi-autos, which can have a relatively heavy trigger. Thanks.

bigfatty · #2 10-29-2015, 08:16 PM

The only ones I could think of that'd come remotely close would be the LCP and the original, hammer version of the LC9. They go from about 4.5-5 pounds (LC9s) up to generally 10 or so.

Hapworth · #3 10-29-2015, 08:47 PM

There's variation, but current J-frames out of the box are generally in the 12lbs range.

LedFowl · #4 10-29-2015, 10:41 PM

I've got two J frames from the 1970's. On my model 36, the DA trigger pull is just over 10 pounds. On my model 49, it's 12 1/2 pounds.

gnystrom · #5 10-29-2015, 10:44 PM

My Kahr Pm9 although striker fired, has a long DA pull that is very smooth and runs a bit under 6#. It is a thing of beauty.

Spring changes and stonework get my j frames 8-9# and they remain reliable.

shouldazagged · #6 10-30-2015, 12:14 AM

I haven't tested my 640 but I'd estimated it at around nine pounds, possibly ten, very smooth.

Ignition is totally reliable.

Ranger514 · #7 10-30-2015, 12:58 AM

I had a 642 that was off the charts, but an Apex kit brought it down to around 10 pounds. I just picked up a 60 that's also quite a brute, so I'm dry firing with snap caps to help smooth the trigger a bit. In contrast, the Sig P290RS 9mm I carry has a very smooth and full DAO pull of around 10 pounds. It broke in nicely after only a couple of hundred rounds.

Blackshirt · #8 10-31-2015, 12:02 PM

My 638 was 12 lbs as stock. I put in the Apex kit and the DA went down to a little over 9 lbs, but the SA break was too light. I switched the rebound spring to a 15 lb variant and left the rest of the Apex kit in place...magic and 100% ignition with six different cartridge types. I really like that little revolver.

chief38 · #9 11-01-2015, 05:58 AM

I've got plenty of J Frames and they do vary a bit. Since my RCBS trigger pull scale only goes up to 8 pounds I don't really know what the DA weight is but quite honestly I don't really concern myself with a number. I am more interested in how smooth and consistent the pull is rather than the number itself.

J Frames, because of their smaller size can sometimes feel heavier than the same weight K Frame DA pull does depending on your hand size. Just be careful reducing DA pull weights on J's because their hammers are lighter than larger Frame guns and they need a little more umph to be reliable. Again, SMOOTH is what is more important IMHO.

gnystrom · #10 11-01-2015, 11:34 AM

Smooth trumps weight, but many times I will work with an individual without a lot of strength, and an extra 3# of trigger wt. is a lot over a 150 round training session.
I want all my j-frames to have polished contoured triggers and smooth DA pulls of under 9#.

Blackshirt · #11 11-02-2015, 12:50 PM

A lighter firing pin spring such as the one in the Apex Tactical XP Firing Pin Kit helps enhance reliable ignition with reduced-power mainsprings.

TeaDub · #12 11-02-2015, 01:50 PM

From oldest to newest my J-frames measured: 10, 12.5 and 11.5 pounds. The middle one, my 642, is my most carried. Not only was it a little heavier; it was also a little rough feeling. A trip to a knowledgeable gunsmith to just "smooth it out" resulted in a crisper trigger pull at 10 pounds. I'm happy with all of them now.