617 With Overtorqued Barrel?

[K1500]

All,

I have a 4" 617 with a barrel that I believe is over-torqued. The front sight and base lists slightly to the left (as viewed in the firing position). This necessitates having the rear sight cranked over to the left a visible amount to compensate. In addition, the top of the front sight is off level slightly when viewed from a firing position, and the barrel ribs are slightly off center. It is not much, but a close examination reveals what I believe to be a barrel that is tightened a bit past top dead center. The gun was bought new and exhibited the above conditions when new.

Is there a user fix for this (i.e. can I crank the barrel back a bit). How would I go about doing this?

If a user fix is inappropriate, should I send it back to S&W or just live with it? Accuracy seems fine as is, and it does regulate to POA with the adjustable sights. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Snapping Twig]

Common term for that is "clocked" and IMO, while not detrimental to function, totally unacceptable.

Nothing you can do for it in the field. The cure is to remove the barrel, recut the barrel at the threads to correct final positioning, replacement of barrel and recut the forcing cone to spec.

Send it to S&W.

 

[Bullseye Smith]

I would shoot it firstand it it shoots way to the right I would then call S&W and send it back to be fixed.

 

[DCWilson]

One thing I would try before sending it back is a trick I learned from a forum member. This worked on a pinned barrel on an old K-22, but I don't know if there would be any success on a "crush fit" barrel installation.

Take a gunsmithing hammer with a nylon face and tap the offside vertical face of the ejector rod locking lug. You are not trying to beat on the stub -- just give it a firm tap, or two or three, and see if that backs the barrel off by the half-degree or one degree you need and gets it into proper alignment.

 

[pea shooter]

617 barrel

I have a 617 6" that has the same problem.It is back a S&W getting repaired.Mine was pretty noticable although I did not notice it when I bought it because I would never thought a company with S&W reputation would let a product like this out of the factory!I would call them and send it back and when they tell you they have never heard of this problem before give them my e-mail address and I will send them my serial number so they can check the repair order.I like the gun alot but I am very dissapointed with their quality control.I traded a 970 taurus in on this gun because I wanted the best now I wonder if I am getting the best.

 

[deuterij]

I figure getting a barrel to fit right in all respects (b/c gap, front sight alignment, proper torque) is a manufacturing challenge. I have a few S&W revolvers with misaligned barrels that I accept as OK or at least not worth the hassle of sending back.

It's a personal call. If you're not happy with it and they'll fix it under warranty, why not? I'd be leery of backing the barrel off at all. I'd rather have it tightened into the frame at the right torque - just my opinion.

-Eric

 

[nutsforsmiths]

Send it to Smith. They will most likely put a new barrel in the gun free of charge.
I had this problem with a pistol I bought used and they put in a new barrel for free. I had to pay for the shipping to send it back to the factory, but factory picked up the rest of the tab.

 

[OhDannyBoy]

You're not alone...

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1980-present/116349-617-turned-barrel.html

 

[pea shooter]

617 barrel

Just got a e-mail today said the are replacing the frame

 

[Nightowl]

I have a 629 DX that had to go back for the same reason. I had not fired that many rounds through it when it happened. If it is not square up TDC, I don't see how you could get a good accurate sight picture with it.

 

[Marshall 357]

Send it back to S&W.

 

[pea shooter]

617 repaired

I got it back today it was gone 16 days ,pretty impressive turn around .Only complaint is I had to pay to reregister it.I sent them an e-mail about this so I will wait an see what they say. I don't want to sound petty but the gun was brand new.