629-1 re barrel question

[pooka]

Guys, thanks for all the great posts!, I have an opinion ?, I have a non pinned, but recessed 629-1 that came w/ an 8 3/8 tube. About 20 yrs ago, I sent it to the factory, and had a 6" underlug factory bbl installed. They shipped the weapon back, with the orig 8 3/8 tube separate. Well, now I want to put the orig bbl back on. I know I could ship it back to S&W to do, and it prob wouldn't cost alot, but I'd be in it for the job plus over $100 shipping (overnight, ect). I have re barreled numerous carbines,Garands, Mausers and Springfields, and I have action and bbl wrenches, (Atlas lathe, HS gauges,reamers,ect). I think with the proper action wrench inserts, I should be able to do the job myself. My "guesstimate" is the timing should be on, as well as the gap, the rev has only had about 200 rds fired since the 6" bbl instal, so nothing should have changed with cyl/frame.What do you guys think???
Thanks, Stay Safe, JMC

 

[500 Magnum Nut]

Only concern is the crush fit on the reinstall barrel threads may not be as tight as before. There is a chance it could loosen up under recoil.

Make sure the frame doesn't get sprung. Make a brace for it then try it. It won't hurt anything otherwise. If it doesn't work, plan B is to send it in.