686 Sometimes hammer won't work in double-action

[Chuck von Buck]

Sometimes, when shooting double-action, the cylinder turns but the hammer just sits there and does not join in the action.

 

[OutWest50]

Maybe a sear problem?

Check for a problem involving the hammer sear. Maybe weak/broken sear spring, gummed up/dirty, or incorrectly fit.

 

[steelslaver]

Get a can of spray carburetor cleaner. Put the little straw on the nozzle Take the stocks off. Spray the spots along in front of and behind the trigger and hammer as you pull the trigger and if necessary cock the hammer. 90+% of the time it is a gummed up dbl action sear and it will start working. Just got done doing it to a 10-7 frame. Going to end up taking it apart anyway to change the hammer (broken spur)

Probably some one had it that liked lots of lube or WD40

 

[stansdds]

Could definitely be the result of cleaning and lubrication by someone who worships at the alter of WD-40.

 

[johns961]

Or a MIM part failure. My 686 developed a problem with the cylinder not wanting to turn double or single action. Sent it back to S&W. They sent it back saying they changed the hammer, trigger, Hand and the ejector rod.

 

[Dave.357]

Back off strain screw before you
Take side plate off. Then take it
apart clean and lube each part.
Because it works sometimes
I think I is just dirty not broken.
JMO

 

[MP-5]

Did we fix it?

 

[kaaskop49]

Make sure the sideplate screws are tight. Firmly tight, NOT death-grip tight. Couple of my J-frames were doing what your gun is: the sideplate screws were loose. I don't understand the mechanical reasoning, but it worked for me.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103