M37 Revolver Stops After 4 rds

[mightymag]

This is my first post on any forum so please excuse me if I am in the wrong thread or not using the proper protocol.

My father passed on father's day this year and I starting carrying his M37. Although I only started carrying after Dad passing, I am now a daily carrier after an incident while traveling for work in NJ. I have become a devotee of M&Ps and now own a 9, 40, 45, & a 22. However, I carry my father's M37 on my ankle as a backup daily. It probably makes me feel like pop is still with me. The chamber has recently started failing to advance after firing the 4th round. I've tried different ammo. My gunsmith can't find the problem. Has anyone here had this problem?

BTW where should I actually post my inquiry on this forum?

 

[judge]

Sir - You are in the right place (gunsmithing) at this time. If you mean the cylinder fails to rotate, then there is a problem with the hand, the hand spring, or the extractor teeth. Or is the cylinder just "locked up", causing it not to turn? If it is locked up, check under the extractor & give it a good cleaning with a toothbrush - make sure there is no debris under this area at all.

 

[KAC]

You might want to check your ammo. Sounds like the bullets are pulling because of recoil.

 

[murphydog]

The bullets unseating with recoil seems the most likely explanation. Trying a different (lighter) load to see if the problem persists may be a clue.

BTW, if you have a Kentucky concealed carry permit it may not be honored in NJ...food for thought.

 

[fran m]

I think the food for thought is correct, if you are talking about CC in NJ. Doesn't seem that they really issue permits even though they could. Looks like they deny even with good reason. Never heard of anyone actually having one.

Anyone on the forum have one?

 

[JM4151]

NJ gun permit

I had a NJ gun permit about 8 yesrs ago. The permits are only good for 2 years. They even require that you get a note from a shrink that you are of sound mind.The permit has to be signed by a County Judge. After they passed that Federal law called 218 I no longer need the NJ permit. I am covered under the 218, being a retired law enforcement officer. I do have to quallify yearly.

 

[mightymag]

Thanks for the input. FYI ..... I was not carrying in NJ, but started carrying full time when I returned to KY due to an attempted robbery in Trenton. Would not return to that location without protection though.

My M37 fires successfully thru four rounds then does will not rotate to 5. I have tried several brands of ammo and cylinder always stops upon firing 4th round. I can not rotate further by hand or hammer but it opens without a problem. I have not thought of trying a lighter load and do appreciate the suggestion. If that fails I suppose I will send it to SW as my gunsmith can not identify the issue. Fortunately, I have other pistols for SD.

On a personal note, as a 60 year man I find it a bit ironic to be ambivalent regarding hand guns my entire life until a threatening incident gives you a new perspective. I am now a card carrying NRA member, a weekly range attendant, and a multiple gun owner. Obviously, being threatened and in fear for your life can change a long held outlook in a second.

 

[Retired W4]

I am curious, and it could make a difference, is it the fourth round fired regardless of cylinder position, or is it a particular chamber?

Sorry. Looks like you answered the question while I was typing.

 

[captainjohnsofd]

As a NJ resident I can tell you that Non-Residents are not permitted to possess/carry firearms here, regardless of whatever permit held. Retired LEO's with the National CCW qualification may possess/carry. The penalties are severe even to travel through this state as a Non-Resident with a firearm. It is ridiculous but it is the law.

 

[mightymag]

I have never carried in NJ nor do I plan to return. When I got my KY conceal carry I checked on New Jersey laws (and other states where I am ask to work). I no longer work NJ or IL as I will not travel anywhere to work where I can not carry. I work alone inspecting storm damage in many marginal neighborhoods. I found out in NJ how dangerous that can be without a means of SD.

 

[Retired W4]

My Mother was born and raised in Trenton, or more accurately Ewing Township, which back in the 50's and 60's was a suburb and was concidered out in the country. Even then Trenton was concidered a dangerous place and Ewing was not much better. I can only imagine what it's like today. In this great country of ours everyone can live where they please and go where they please. My hope is that someday Americans can defend themselves, their property and their neighbors as our founders invisioned, without some of these crazy states getting in the way.

Good luck with your M37 and be safe in your travels.

 

[Fkimble]

After firing the 4th shot, look at the front end of the cylinder and i bet you will see that the 5th bullet is sticking out just a little keeping it from rotating to the firing position.