I have a 686-5 Plus, 7 round cylinder and the ejector has significant play in it. So much so that the timing is off when the cylinder is empty, both SA and DA. When loaded or with empty brass the timing is good, so I'm not too concerned, but I am curious as how it got to be so bad and if there is anything I can do to prevent further wear. The cylinder does not have the positioning pins or grooved ejector shaft, only a flat running the length of the shaft.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

TIA,
ot

I have a 686-5 Plus, 7 round cylinder and the ejector has significant play in it. So much so that the timing is off when the cylinder is empty, both SA and DA. When loaded or with empty brass the timing is good, so I'm not too concerned, but I am curious as how it got to be so bad and if there is anything I can do to prevent further wear. The cylinder does not have the positioning pins or grooved ejector shaft, only a flat running the length of the shaft.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

TIA,
ot

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NRA - All Day

The design of the new style extractor requires that carry up be checked with properly sized dummy rounds inserted in the charge holes. The dummy rounds help position the extractor, and thereby the extractor ratchets, in the cylinder. This function is performed by live rounds when the revolver is being fired.

Not like the earlier pinned extractors, I know ...

__________________
Ret LE Firearms inst & armorer

Thanks for the information, Fastbolt. This gives me peace of mind.

Regards,
ot

__________________
NRA - All Day

De nada.

With the new style (non-pinned) extractor, with dummy rounds in the charge holes, if the cylinder stop doesn't enter each of the cylinder's stop notches before the hammer falls in DA (while pulling the trigger slowly), or before the hammer reaches full cock in SA (while slowly thumb-cocking the hammer), call S&W to have it checked.

__________________
Ret LE Firearms inst & armorer