1957 4-screw .38spl pre-Md15 lockup issue

[cporfe]

I have this old revolver that isn't in collector grade. In fact a previous owner has "fancied" up this gun and relegated it to shooter status forever. Which is why I bought it. But now, I'm having trouble with the cylinder lockup. One chamber is very difficult to lock up. If I loosen the cylinder screw (4th screw) it works fine. But I'm afraid the screw would come loose and fall away during repeated firing. I've cleaned under the extractor star, I've made sure the ejector rod is straight and tight, and I've looked at the hand and cylinder stop and don't see any issues.

Any suggestions? I'd like to get back to shooting this on a regular basis.

As an aside, does anyone know of a really good gunsmith that can work on the revolver in the Austin area? It's not worth shipping off anywhere to me.

Chris

[armorer951]

If you are referring to "carry up", and the carry up is late on one chamber, then the issue is likely the interface between the erring ratchet (for that particular chamber) and the hand.

End shake, or too much rear gauge (headspace) can sometimes contribute to this problem, so be sure to check that.

Your trusted gunsmith who is familiar with revolvers should be able to take care of this for you.



Carter

[gmarshall99]

It sounds like the fourth screw is impeding on the crane. Check the crane / screw interface for burrs. You could also put a small amount of non permanent lock tite on the screw threade.

[cporfe]

Thanks for the comments. I should have mentioned that when I said "difficult to lockup" I also meant that it took a lot of force to get the hammer to lock up on this cylinder. I'll take the cylinder off and check the crane (I probably should has thought of that on my own) and see if there is any damage I couldn't see with just the side plate off.

I appreciate the help!

Chris

[armorer951]

Possible long ratchet (or damaged ratchet) on the problem chamber


Carter.

[series guy]

I would bet someone mixed up the side plate screws. Try switching them around.

[Holden6v8]

Not Austin, but not that far. Alex Hamilton is one of the best still around