340 M&P speed loader problem

[Macinaw]

Tried using a speed loader with the grips that came with it. When I put in the rounds the speed loader got stuck on the grip. When I tried pulling the stuck rounds out the whole cylinder started to slide off the yoke. I could not close the cylinder. I was able to push the cylinder back onto the yoke.
I know I have to get different grips to use a speed loader. My question is should I be worried about the cylinder sliding off like it did? Thanks Mac

 

[allglock]

When you pushed the speedloader in, it rubbed against the grip, and pushed the cyl. away from the frame. When you pulled back, the cyl. came with it. The cyl. Stop on J frames only has about .005 of contact with the cyl. Get a set of grips designed with the speedloader in mind, and give it another try. If worst comes to worst, you will need to send it back for a new frame.
I don't know why they use those grips, that are not speedloader friendly?

 

[wheelyfun66]

I have a 340 M&P, and when using speed loaders, I do the following: Just barely start the rounds in the cylinder holes, while holding the speed loader angled away from the grip.
With the rounds barely started, I turn the knob and release the rounds....they drop right into place, no muss, no fuss.

Never had a problem getting speedloader hung up on grips, and yes, I use stock grips (2011 model).

I prefer speed strips most of the time, while carrying extra ammo.
I do, however, use speed loaders on the night stand, and therefore practice using them a fair amount.

Try it, and see if that helps?

 

[Macinaw]

Thanks for the help! Macinaw

 

[SAFireman]

I had this same problem with an older version of the 340 (a 340sc). I had to send it to S&W. They replaced the entire gun.

The portion of the frame that contacts the cylinder is not very large and is prone to wear...also, the crane can become distorted. I guess that is a hazard that comes with a alloy framed J frame.

Good luck with getting yours made right again.

 

[Big_T]

Had that problem with mine as well. When I had the gun back at S&W for other repairs I had them put a 640 Pro cylinder in it that was machined for moon clips. It took a little lit gun smithing on the edge of the charge holes to make it work, but reloads are now quite speedy.

 

[Ralph G. Briscoe]

I've noted the same problem with my 642...pretty inexcusable for Smith IMO. I saw a pic of a 642 where the owner had sanded away the point of the left grip that hangs up. Haven't done that yet but planning to. No such problems with my LCR. As a previous post said, you can finesse the problem by partly starting the rounds them releasing but I'd prefer not to have to worry about it....particularly in a defense gun.

 

[DEG]

The grips are pretty bulky on my 640PD, but I've not has an issue with the Safariland Comp 1 speed loaders getting stuck. If you haven't tried them it might be worth a try before purchasing new grips.

COMP-1 Revolver Speedloader Charter Arms S&W 5-Shot 38 Special Polymer Black

 

[Big_T]

Detailed Description of my Moon Clip M&P 340

I got a PM from BobR1 about my post above. I've done a thread in response to his questions and thought those viewing this thread might be interested. The new thread is HERE.