So who uses a Hogue S&W Cylinder Release?



How do you like it? Do you think it is practical for an EDC firearm?

Any holster recommendations?

Looks very snaggy.

Put one on an N frame I have. Did not like it. Took it off. That larger thumb piece is not inline with the slot the original thumb piece travels. So, it seemed to me it was harder to push due to the thumb force trying to rotate the new larger offset thumb piece as well as push it forward. At least that is the way it felt to these 70 year old arthritic fingers.

who are competitive revolver shooters. Yes I like it and it has never caused any problems. We carry them in competition holsters. Only you can decide if it's practical for EDC. Buy one and try it but don't throw the stock thumb latch away.

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Bob.
SWCA 1821

Here it is on my 629 Classic. Love it, but the 629 is my bedroom gun and not an EDC.

There are two lengths; I chose the shorter of the two because it just fit me better.

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The snagging issue is what I was concerned with for EDC. I have two different competition style holsters for my custom S&W 625. That would not be an issue with them. If I were to get one it would be the short model however holsters for EDC carrying such a modification may not even exist. That was why I was wondering if anyone had any actual experience of carrying such a modification as an EDC possibility and if so who would make holsters to accommodate it, if any.

My personal gun is an Apex Tactical S&W 625-8 4"
Here is a pic of my gun from when I purchased it; below.



Custom worked 625-8: Full trigger and action job consisting of the Apex Evolution IV parts kit and a level IV ICORE action work, chamfered cylinder, Hi-Vis replacement front sight and fully adjustable rear sight, bead blasted stainless finish

I would only use one if a medical condition prevented the use of a traditional release. It doesn't so I don't.

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aka "Mooncat"

I totally understand. That is why I am seeking others input on this whole extended release idea. I am 71 years old and arthritis is setting in more each passing year however some things are aids and then some aids can actually turn into handicaps. I am old enough and experienced enough to seek the advice and council of those who have actually used this devise before changing what I am all ready used to. Not every new gadget that comes down the pipe is worth putting on your gun for every day carry as some will just get you killed in a gun fight. I have both heard bullets pass by my ears and seen the affects they leave on the human body at hand shaking distance. I am just seeking the experience of others and their wise council here. Thanks!

Have you considered Dave's release? Mounted, it looks a lot less likely to snag.

Cylinder Release

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aka "Mooncat"

Ditto. Give one a try. That link to their competitors looks like some nice options, too.

Thanks for the information! I have never heard of Dave's release before. I will do some research into it.

What mine looks like from the pics when I bought it.

That picture kind of looks funny with a nice smooth revolver with a bobbed hammer and a big lever on the side that would snag everything. I have a little problem with my little lever too on my mod 10 and left handed, but it is a range gun and not important. If you needed to speed load then it might be a good feature.

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Ron
Southern IL

Rare exceptions aside, it's hard to imagine that being better than what came on the gun. All "upgrades" are not improvements. Some are a step back and nothing more than a hindrance.

hey ykcocal,
is that side plate screw missing, or is it the light? be safe....dan

As a Leftie, I love it! It completely eliminates any issues opening the cylinder.

I put them on all of my carry guns, 629, 686, 625, 325. They make life much easier for me and no problem with snagging.

Looks like the clutch pedal on a Kenworth.

I don't have any problems with the factory release, I'll keep it.

You might try Tony Rumore's Extended Cylinder Release Latch. It's only $25. It's larger and easier to use. I have one on my model 69 and really like it because I have arthritis in my hands and it makes the cylinder a lot easier to open. The website is tromix.com.

No offense meant in my reply in any way.
I am not so sure it is all that practical for EDC.
1)Snagging of course is a huge issue.
2)Showing up in court to explain that a modification was required to reload beyond factory means.
3)If you dont have the dexterity to push on the factory thumb latch, I would dare to question the ability to reload 6 in a firefight.

Youmight wish to reconsider to a semi auto.

I can see the pros & cons, too. As 3rdgeargrnder said, maybe don't use it while carrying it, but maybe a good gun lawyer could answer that question. But, if you take it to the range, I think it would be an advantage if your thumb is starting to get arthritic. It's only one screw to change it out. Maybe ask a reputable smith (unless you know guns well) if it could cause any damage to the cylinder release innards. That is a very nice gun, by the way.

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Waiting For The Sun.

While I agree with #1 about snagging, I'm not buying it on #2 and #3.

As for "modification beyond factory means", my rationale is the factory release is more difficult and therefore for me may lead to accidents or just being unintentionally careless - neither of which I want. An easier release means I don't have to use more force and/or concentration in performing a simple action, which would be safer.

Plus the factory is not the ultimate arbiter in producing the best gizmo to do the job. They also have additional concerns ranging from "does it look good" to "which of the available options is cheaper to produce", none of which concerns me.

As for reloading quickly, there is a distinct possibility that I can reload FASTER with Hogue extended release - but if I need more than six rounds in a firefight then I'm either carrying the wrong gun or in the wrong place at the wrong time.

And as for a semi-auto that is as easy to use as a revolver, I also own a S&W 380EZ - but now you are getting into the age-old dispute between "9 rounds of .380 ACP vs 6 rounds of .44 Special" (and similar comparisons), and that is not what this thread is about.

Interesting design. It nicely covers the IL

Smith & Wesson Extended Cylinder Release Latch - Tromix Lead Delivery Systems

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213th FBINA

Looks like it doubles as a Hilary Hole (I hope we are allowed to say this) cover...BONUS!!!!

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aka "Mooncat"

I use them on my 929, 627-5, and my 6" 617 that I all shoot Steel Challenge with. I also shoot USPSA with the 929. I really believe that I can open the cylinder faster because of them, than with a factory release. It's definitely personal preference, but I was hooked after I bought my first one. For everyday carry, I wouldn't use one. For competition, always.

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