327NG: Blast shield replacement - DIY?

[UDR2]

Does anyone know how to replace the blast shield on scandium frame revolvers? Can this be done without sending the gun back to S&W?

I have a new 327NG. (I've shot this model before, but this gun is brand new and has only been fired by S&W.) Out of habit, I opened the cylinder to clear the gun before pulling the trigger, and the blast shield popped off the frame. I called S&W to see if CS could tell me how to re-fit the shield myself, but all they guy said was that they are force-fit and perhaps if I spread the tines, I might be able to re-install it myself. However, my attempts to do so failed to work.

I've had S&W Scandium framed guns before, and 2 of my buddies have had then for years with zero problems, so my experience is on the unusual side. I like the gun and I have no issues with S&W, as I certainly know they will fix the problem post haste... but it seems to me like this might be a Do It Yourself project. So anyone know how to replace the blast sheild? - TIA

 

[ladder13]

You may want to post this in the gunsmithing section.

 

[UDR2]

You may want to post this in the gunsmithing section.

Thank you! Will do.

 

[JoeHatley]

Not a 327, but the blast shield on my 325 is held on by the front sight screw.

Does your 327 shield have a hole in it that would line up with the screw?

 

[UDR2]

Not a 327, but the blast shield on my 325 is held on by the front sight screw.

Hmm... That is an excellent solution to the problem.

Does your 327 shield have a hole in it that would line up with the screw?

I think so, but I can't check it now as I already sent the gun back for repair. I do recall that there is a hole in the blast shield and that there is a small circular structure in the top strap that corresponds to where the forward sight screw might be – but if it is the foot of the screw, it was honed flush to the frame, so that it played no part in securing the shield. Perhaps that is why the shield dislodged.

Thank you for that info. I don't know why S&W CS never mentioned that when I spoke with them.

 

[sar4937]

I tried to buy the blast shield from S&W thinking I might be able to fit it to my prized M66 snub. S&W said they could only be installed at the factory. My PC327 snub looks to have it wedged between the forcing cone and top strap. It sure looks like I could fit it to other guns. They would not even sell me the part, because it is covered under warranty.