So my local "gunsmith" buggered up my sideplate screws including the yoke screw. I called SW and they are sending out replacements free of charge, not even shipping. Kudos to them! But now I want to be sure I don't make the same mistake. The slot on this screw is wider than my bits of the correct span. Can anyone tell me the correct screwdriver/bit for this screw and where I might purchase one? Thanks!!!
686-6 Yoke Screw Bit Size
- Thread starter sw-fan
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I strongly recommend Brownells. Their 180-3 is the correct bit for the new Colt-style yoke screw.
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Brownell's Gunsmithing Screwdriver set is the way to go. If all you ever intend on working on is S&W Revolvers, they do sell a 5 bit "S&W" specific set in a handy screwdriver with a hollow handle that holds the bits. That said, I'd personally recommend one of the larger sets and get the "Law Enforcement: style screwdriver handle with the Magnetic tip.
They are reasonably priced, guaranteed for life (even if you break them) and are the BEST "smithin" set I know of! Others will chime in about other brands, but IMHO the Brownell's set is tops!
IMPORTANT NOTE!
S&W has manufactured Revolvers for many years - their screw slots, manufacturer's and styles have changed over the years and if you intend on collecting more than one - sometimes the screw slots are NOT all the same. Another plug for getting an enlarged set - buy once, cry once! BTW the Hollow Ground Screwdriver set can be used on more than just Revolvers! They are great for any screw slot you don't want to "bugger up"!
They are reasonably priced, guaranteed for life (even if you break them) and are the BEST "smithin" set I know of! Others will chime in about other brands, but IMHO the Brownell's set is tops!
IMPORTANT NOTE!
S&W has manufactured Revolvers for many years - their screw slots, manufacturer's and styles have changed over the years and if you intend on collecting more than one - sometimes the screw slots are NOT all the same. Another plug for getting an enlarged set - buy once, cry once! BTW the Hollow Ground Screwdriver set can be used on more than just Revolvers! They are great for any screw slot you don't want to "bugger up"!
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on that very set. The set I have is pretty minimal. I also have a Marlin 336 that I'll be disassembling and may end up purchasing that set. Thanks again.
Over the years and many sub contractor screw mfg's, the size of the screw slot has varied considerable. Keep a full set of bits, and use the one that best fits the slot, Sometimes the screw mfg's and the screw driver mfg's don't talk to each other. Especially if you have some older 5 screw S&W's.
minconrevo
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I have 2 Brownell's S&W revolver specific screw driver sets. One lives on bench and the other in my portable 'smith bag. Kit includes the screwdriver handle and 4 S&W friendly screwdriver bits. With a little care using them, you will not damage your S&W revolver ever again!
It is a Colt style, meaning that it uses a plunger. It is not at all identical with Colt. In fact, I think that it is sold as an assembly only, whereas the Colt comes in, I think, three pieces, and is a different size. Years ago, all three sideplate screws were the same size. Once upon a time, they were even all round-headed.
