629-1 cylinder swap question

[rjm6120]

I am eyeballing a used 4" 629-1 at an LGS that has one issue---one-third of the outside of the cylinder has severe gouges (and the gun is priced accordingly). My guess is Bubba's disastrous attempt to engrave the cylinder.

The rest of the gun, cosmetically and mechanically, is in fantastic shape, except for the Pachmayr's it is wearing, but that can be easily remedied with some nice N frame targets I have on hand.

There are a few 629-1 cylinders available on FleaBay. Would there be anything else involved in a cylinder swap besides changing out the original cylinder's internals, including the ejector rod and ejector star?

My primary concern with this idea is there being timing issues with the replacement cylinder's cylinder stop notches. Thanks in advance for any guidance.

 

[stansdds]

It might be that easy, but I tend to doubt it as revolver parts usually require hand fitting.

 

[rjm6120]

It might be that easy, but I tend to doubt it as revolver parts usually require hand fitting.

I'm thinking the same thing.

 

[Rlg#17]

Usually a cylinder swap will require fitting the the ratchets to the new revolver, also possibly of the cylinder to the new gun also. Not much of an issue if you know what you are doing!

Know what you are doing…. Ifyou don't know what you are doing stay off Bubbatube. Wrong file, wrong fitment and the price of the replacement just keeps going up! Find a person that knows what they are doing.

Happy New Years y'all,
Rick Gibbs

 

[armorer951]

Midway has some new model 629 cylinders if you would rather start with a new one. Another option if you can't find a decent used one.

Be sure to confirm fitment if you plan to move the extractor from the damaged cylinder to the new one. These have the new style, non-pinned extractor. (I believe yours is pinned)


smith and wesson cylinder - MidwayUSA


Carter

 

[Pig Hunter]

As you said if you have new enough cylinders that use the extractor stars without pin it should be a pretty straight forward swap. If they are both the older style with pins it is more complicated but doable. If the gun having the old style pin and the new cylinder has the new style extractor, you will probably need to work on the ratchets.

 

[rjm6120]

I appreciate the responses. I may have to think about this venture a bit. Definitely sounds like some risks are certainly involved and the exchange may be more difficult than I am hoping it will be.