Installed the plug

[Dale53]

I bought a plug and hair pin retainer spring for my 642 some time ago. I have been carrying the piece daily for some time. I have never had a problem but cannot ignore the reported failures with my "daily carry".

Finally, I got around to installing the PLUG.

I have done many tune ups of Smiths over the years but removing the old lock was new to me. It was a bit tricky. The U-tube Video would help for initial tear-down but that is old hat for me. My problem was trying to figure out how to remove the lock & stirrup without marring the revolver's finish. I finally scoped it out. I just needed to "pick" the end of the operating spring and pull it out. You DO need to be careful or you can lose that tiny little coil spring.

At any rate, the PLUG fit just fine and I was able to figure out how to install the hair pin spring upon some reflection. Some directions would be helpful for first timers.

I then took the revolver to the range and gave it a spin. Everything worked JUST FINE. Now, I can quit worrying about a gun failure at an inopportune time.

I, for one, am happy that the PLUG is available.

Dale53

 

[BubbaGubber]

Based on the actual cases of IL failure (EXTREMELY low), there are plenty of other parts you should still worry about failing at inopportune times.....if fact, you should worry about them even more.

I'm sorry, but the "internet" has blown IL lock failures WAY out of proportion. I think the PLUG is a big waste of money and opens one up to potential liability issues.

 

[500 Magnum Nut]

I done this to a few of them, and it's reversible.

But normally, I just tell them to pop the locking arm off. Easiest way I know of.

 

[chief38]

INTERNAL LOCKS SHOULD GO!

I have not (and refuse to) purchase a S&W revolver with the stupid internal lock. There is no argument that makes any sense at all to me for installing it in the first place. If you have young children in the house and want to completely disable the weapon, simply unload it and put a cable type lock through the cylinder or a master lock around the frame. It's probably a lot faster to open a big lock than it is to fumble with a handcuff type key when your under stress. That's it!

If you are carrying a gun, presumably one would want it at the ready if & when needed, so why is there a need for the I/L? If you are not living with any children in the house and need a "nightstand gun" at the ready, why would you lock it? The real reason a revolver shines in the first place is that it is simple and reliable, why undo that? If you are going to install a lock on a revolver, why wouldn't you install a lock on an auto loading double action pistol also?

We all know the answer to the questions above....... to suck up to the Clinton administration. Well S&W, they are not in power anymore, and you are free to take the I/L off now!!!

As far as I am concerned, there are still PLENTY of high quality used or "as new" S & W revolvers available on this Forum as well as Gunbroker and other site to be had at better prices than the new MIM, ugly and as far as I am concerned, "fake" Smith & Wesson's they are now producing. If as many people felt the way I did and practiced what they preached, S&W would loose the lock sooner than later!

I hear tell that Colt is now getting ready to start production of some of their old classics like the Dick Special, as well as others. Now I am a Smith Man 100%, but I'd buy a new Dick Special without an I/L before I'd buy a Smith with the lock. By the way, NO ONE REALLY KNOWS the percentages of lock failures, so let's not say they are high or low, and I do not think that S&W would give us a true accounting anyway, (there are already enough people pissed off at the whole I/L thing).

Just my 2 cents.........by the way fella's, did I forget to mention I do not like the I/L???

Regards,
chief38

 

[R A Miller]

Dale53,

Thanks for posting the information about installing the Plug from the perspective of a first timer.

I've been considering installing the Plug on a few of my S&Ws. After reading your post I'm going for it.

I too am pleased that the Plug is available. Each individual can determine if installation of the Plug is appropriate for their circumstances.

Rick

 

[Iggy]

I installed a "plug" in my wife's 642 as soon Bulleyesmith posted about them on the forum. I have read enough anecdotal incidents about the lock failure to be concerned about it.

I don't care about what others think about whether the IL is a problem or not. Itchy and I both feel better about the reliability of her carry gun without the IL, and that's what it is all about.


If an old "barb wire cowboy" can install the "plug" most anybody can.

 

[R A Miller]

I don't care about what others think about whether the IL is a problem or not. Itchy and I both feel better about the reliability of her carry gun without the IL, and that's what it is all about.

Bingo!

Rick

 

[luangtom]

Plug

What is the most up-to-date source for purchasing "the plug"? I would like to purchase at least one for my J-frames, M&P340 and 340PD.

 

[Iggy]

Bullseye Smith on this forum is the guy who makes and sells them
Check this thread.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/accessories-misc-sale-trade/143299-fs-plug.html

 

[luangtom]

Thanks. I PM'd him for info already. Thanks again....

 

[sixpointfive]

Seems pricey but looks well made. I wonder if there is a way to get the "L" off of the gun? I ahve a model 625 with the lock

Matt