CHAMBER PROBLEM 19-4

[uncleharold]

Help!!! I have a model 19-4 .357, and one of the chambers will not extract the spent case.I have to put a brass rod in the case and tap it out. I hand load using 5 gr. HP-38 and have been reloading this load for over 5 years and have had no problem expect for the last time I went to the range, the other 5 chambers are extracting the spent case with no problems. Before I take the gun to my local smith, I thought I would check with fellow S&W owners for your suggestions on how to correct this problem, (yes I gave the gun a complete cleaning).
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

 

[old bear]

I'm sure you've checked, but is the problem with the same charging hole, every time?
If so, is there a carbon build up that charging hole? If this is the problem, the easy fix is use a .40 caliber brass brush in a power drill to "power" remove the build up. Remember to put a drop of lube on the brass brush.
Have you checked the spent brass for signs of over pressure loads?

Good luck

 

[Peak53]

I agree this sounds like carbon build up, especially since it just showed up recently. Are you using .38 or .357 cases? I've used the power brush method a time or two with good success. Just don't get too speedy with the drill.

 

[uncleharold]

chamber problem

Thanks guys for the tips I will try it and see what happens.
I only use .357 cases and only one chamber is causing me problems. I will get back to you with the results.
Again thanks for the help..

 

[ExcitableBoy]

PEAK53 has it nailed. However, a better tool to use would be a hone , sometimes referred to as "monkey balls", chucked up in a hand drill. They are commonly used for honing oil passages in engine blocks. You would need the appropriate size, lots of oil and a light touch. Easy does it...

 

[BruceM]

It's most likely dirt but it doesn't hurt to check for a bulged charge hole.

Bruce

 

[H Richard]

Carbon can be scraped out with a 357 case ran thru the neck expander die enough to jtst fit in the chamber. Tap in and out a few times.