Late 1955 Target .45 needs work

[Full Moon Shooter]

Hi,

I have a late model 1955 Target (25-2) that was sold new in 1984. The action is not very smooth and the cylinder binds on two chambers. The cylinder binding occurs when the cylinder is loaded and unloaded. I have used both full moon clips and .45 Auto Rim and the binding still occurs so I do not think it is a clip or ammo problem. The barrel is 6" instead of 6 1/2". It appears to be a Bangor Punta era gun from the paperwork contanied in the presentation case.

Can anyone recomend a gunsmith to resolve the action problems? I was thinking of just sending it to the Performance Center for an action job, would this cure the problem?

Thanks for your advice!

 

[45Wheelgun]

I'm not a gunsmith.

I would look at the extractor rod. A bent rod could show the symptoms you noted.

Open the empty cylinder and using the end of the extractor rod to spin the cylinder. You may find it is out of round.

 

[Full Moon Shooter]

Dave,

Thanks, I will give it a try.

Morgan

 

[Texas Roots]

Here are a couple of more things to check.

Make sure the front of the cylinder is not rubbing on the forcing cone when you are cocking it, causing the binding.

Also, make sure the extractor rod has not begun to "unscrew." Check to make sure it is tight. (It has a left-handed thread) If you can unscrew it by hand, check here on the forum and we can tell you how to tighten it properly without damage.

Look under the extractor "star" to make sure there is no buildup of dirt or powder residue; either under the star itself or on the cylinder where the star seats itself. If there is, it could interfere with single or double action shooting

 

[JSR III]

I would contact S&W customer service and see if they will look at it. Usually they will tune up one of their own for little or no money.