Barrel/Cylinder gap question

[JackM]

The barrel/cylinder gap on my mid-80s M37 varies about .002" when measured from opposite sides. It measures about .008"-.009" from the right side, and .006" to .007" from the left. The .009" feeler will go in with resistance from the right but won't go all the way through. I searched a few previous posts but didn't find what I'm looking for. Is this difference in gap something I should be concerned with or is it common to S&W revolvers?

 

[1911 45]

I think it's common from from what I've seen. I have a few with a slight variance like you described. I wouldn't worry about it unless your pistol is spitting lead really bad, a lot of lead build up etc.

 

[NYlakesider]

I think it's common from from what I've seen. I have a few with a slight variance like you described. I wouldn't worry about it unless your pistol is spitting lead really bad, a lot of lead build up etc.

What he said!

 

[Alk8944]

For most of the history of S&W the barrel-cylinder gap was set after the barrel was assembled to the frame, by hand, using a file. Getting the barrel perfectly square is virtually impossible for most people to do, especially consistently. It is actually fairly uncommon to find a revolver which is not out of square by .001-.002", sometimes significantly more!

 

[44wheelman]

Its probably most common on mid 80's guns, I've seen other as you describe.

 

[JackM]

Thanks. I'll put fifty rounds of lead bullets through it and see if there's any obvious shaving.