I recently acquired a 1940 production Safety Hammerless and discovered that the firing pin does not move. It needs about a week in a solution of ABF and acetone. My question is: what kind of a closed container do you use for this soaking process. I use a large glass jar with lid for parts but this does not work for a whole gun that has not been cleaned in 50-60 years with frozen screws. I have a large plastic jar with lid that works for the small SH, but am concerned that the chemicals will melt/soften the jar. Also, how hard is it to find a firing pin, FP spring, and bushing, if I need them.
38 S&W Safety Hammerless Stuck Firing Pin
- Thread starter delta-419
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If you want to submerge the entire revolver, in the past I've used glass baking pans, 8x8, 9x13 (Anchor or Pyrex) or..... plastic/aluminum disposable trays you find at the grocery. These trays can be covered with plastic wrap or foil if needed.
You'll have to base your decision on what kind of container you choose based on what type of solvent used.
You'll have to base your decision on what kind of container you choose based on what type of solvent used.
mmaher94087
Member
I have used the plastic/aluminum trays, but the acetone warped the tops after a day's soaking. I now use a one-gallon paint can with lid. New cans are available at the big box stores. The ATF/acetone solution can be stored in the can.
ArchAngelCD
Moderator, SWCA Member, Absent Comrade
If you don't want to mix your own Kroil is a good choice. A heavy disposable aluminum tray will be cheap and east. Lay the gun in the bottom and cover with the rust penetrant of your choice. There are many good suggestions above. Let it soak a good long time to really get a good results. Don't buy a larger tray than you need so you don't have to waste product.
Good luck.
Good luck.
OP
Related Question on Safety Hammerless Guns
Are the side plate screws (2) on the 32 and 38 a standard size screw as used on all S&W revolvers during the pre-war era. Will K frame screws fit the side plate of the hammerless model.
Are the side plate screws (2) on the 32 and 38 a standard size screw as used on all S&W revolvers during the pre-war era. Will K frame screws fit the side plate of the hammerless model.
ArchAngelCD
Moderator, SWCA Member, Absent Comrade
I would ask S&W so you are sure. If they don't have them you might find them on Numrich Gun Parts. They have a 38 Safety Hammerless side plate screw in stock for under $5. The part number for the 32 is different.
tlay
US Veteran
Firing pin
I sent you a pm on the screw. As to the firing pin it probably has a broken spring and possibly a broken pin. I would remove them a fix or replace them. If you have trouble with this please pm me and I can help.
I sent you a pm on the screw. As to the firing pin it probably has a broken spring and possibly a broken pin. I would remove them a fix or replace them. If you have trouble with this please pm me and I can help.
S&W Safety revolvers have a sleeve that is held in place by a pin. In order to remove the firing pin and spring, the sleeve must be removed as well. Not an easy job since there is little space to work with behind the recoil shield. I have only had to replace one firing pin in a Safety and do not remember the details of how I got the sleeve to move, but if you have a broken spring, no amount of soaking will help. I would remove the firing pin assembly and inspect first. David Chicoine's book Antique Firearms Assembly/Disassembly have the details on how to do it. I did a quick scan of the page that is of most interest for you. Just save it to your computer and enlarge it to read the details.
Attachments
Sorry, I forgot the stuck screws. I have great luck using a soldering iron on small screws. Since the tips are copper, no damage to the screw, just clean the tip to remove any solder. I place it on the head of the screw and keep it there for a minute. Immediately use a proper fit screwdriver and turn the screw. If still stuck, add a drop of oil and repeat the soldering iron process. The oil will eventually smoke and that is the time to try it again. I have done this for many years and have yet to find a screw that will not come loose after heating.
