OP
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- Apr 4, 2006
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I agree that screw threads do sometimes wear out and get sloppy which could invite a possible backing out. If you were not home, didn't have a new screw available or had to go to a match, raid, practice session, etc., then yes some blue Locktite would bail you out temporarily. That said, the screw should be replaced at the first opportunity you had to do it. After said screw was replaced, no more Locktite would be needed. Screw threads loosen up, wear and distort because they were not tightened properly in the first place - even more so under vibrations, gun fire and everyday use. Keeping a screw tightened to the proper torque setting will also prevent the internal frame female threads from wearing out. Those are much harder to repair. Many just do not understand the importance of proper tightening technique and torque. I know I sound like a tech nerd, but that is why most screw threads wear out, distort or strip. BTW, I do not use a torque wrench on guns as I have been working on them for 55 years now and mastered the technique. I was guilty of not doing so correctly in the very beginning but corrected that in short order.
I remove the yoke screw and grips on every single revolver I own every single time I clean it. I like cleaning the cylinder and charge holes while off the revolver because it is easier and makes the process that much better with less possibility of damage, scratching or missed fouling. I also like removing the grips to keep them in good shape and prevent damage during cleaning. I have been doing this for 50 years and have not yet had to replace a yoke screw because it got sloppy or a set of grips because they got damaged. I have also not had a yoke screw just loosen up on a S&W yet, but again, I agree it could happen on any gun if not properly tightened from the factory. I have replaced screws because a previous owner buggered one up or I just did not like the way it fit - I have encountered bad factory screws. That is why I keep every common screw and wear part in stock in my parts collection. I do not think I would need any outside parts to rebuild, repair or replace a part in any revolver I own. That's just the way I fly. I bought these spare parts over the years from S&W, Colt, gun shows, parts dealers, etc. I have not had to call an outside vendor for a part in decades.
I follow the same logic with semi auto's.In the case of Colt SAA's which ARE notorious for having screws back out under fire, I starting using little red plastic washers (from Colt) and that greatly helps. It doesn't solve the problem 100%, so I just go over the screws when I clean the guns. That prevents any screws from turning more than 1/8 turn and works for me. My Colt SAA's are strictly fun guns or pleasure shooting guns now that I have hung up my spurs in the S.A.S.S. game. As the legend goes, "if you carry a Colt SAA, carry a screwdriver"! Replacing worn screws can also prevent this from happening and stay put for longer intervals. The plastic washers help as well. I suppose blue Locktite could be used, I just rather not on vintage & antique guns unless I have no choice in the matter.
I am one of those "car nuts" who actually torques lug nuts to spec. with a proper Torque Wrench. Whenever my wheels have been removed for new tire installation, balancing, brakes or whatever, I torque the lug nuts to their proper setting as soon as I return home - I don't trust the tire installers to do that! I also agree that tightening screws properly is somewhat of a learned skill or an "art". I have seen way too many screws that were left too lose or too tight - neither is good. The ability of properly tightening screws, nuts and bolts should be a high school course - lol!!
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