5906 Possible Issue?

[Rockies97]

So I just purchased a used 5906 and decided to clean her up. While cleaning I noticed the small hole as viewed in the photos. It doesn't look like the hole protudes all the way through. The hole looks fairly small (small enough to where i cannot get a tooth pick in) Does anyone know if this would still be safe to shoot? or should I try to find another slide (as hard to find as they may be).
Any input is much appreciated.

 

[stansdds]

Not sure what's going on with your slide. It almost looks like there was a defect that was repaired.

 

[WR Moore]

Could have been a small slag inclusion in the bar stock where the slag worked it's way out after machining. Or a repair of same. It's not in a critical area so it doesn't really pose a problem. However, if it really bothers you, you might have the defect micro-welded up. There have been several threads on the process here. Or, try to find another slide.

 

[Exchipy]

So I just purchased a used 5906 […] should I try to find another slide (as hard to find as they may be).

Not so hard to find, maybe. While looking to acquire carbon steel S&W full size 4” 9mm slides to be Black Nitride treated for installation on 3913 project guns last year, and again earlier this year, I was constantly encountering full size stainless steel slides (commonly 5906) on eBay. Just be prepared to pay somewhere in the area of $150 each.

I suspect such parts are likely salvaged from pistols in police custody, which pistols are scheduled for destruction per court order. Because only the frame actually need be destroyed in order to comply with the court order, the other parts can be lawfully stripped off and sold to benefit the police benevolent association or the police widows and orphans fund. Everybody wins.