M43C range test

[Roadranger]

Well, after a 23 month wait, I finally got in a M43C. I'm not going to say it was worth the wait, but I am delighted with little J frame. The first thing all that have seen it noted was how light it is. My brother, a retired deputy and wheel gun man, was very impressed, and may get one himself. Hardly anything impresses him. It fits perfectly in my Blackhawk Serpa holster I use for my M340 M&P. Naturally, it shoots anything one puts in it. I shot some WW 555's bulk pack, R-P Golden bullets bulk pack, and some Federal Champion standard velocity. I had 3 ftf's, all of which fired the second time around. The 43C has a big white dot front sight and a notch rear sight, not a target shooting combination, but I was still able to hit shotgun hulls off of a board. I used a technique from my K and N frame shooting days as I was able to "stage" the double action trigger and get off some accurate shots. Remember the cylinder only rotates 45 degrees per shot and locks up early through the trigger pull. Overall function was as expected, smooth trigger and reliable ejection of all of the cases with a tap of the short but long enough ejector rod. The 43C, at least this one, shoots to point of aim, with my 60 year old eyes, at about 5 to 7 yards. I've got a 6" K-22 if I need more than that. I'M A HAPPY CAMPER. I 'm posting my report on the M&P 22 in the auto section. Bob!!!!!

 

[44specialfan]

Bob ...

Both you and HLG seem to be having excellent results with your new 43C's ! That encouraging as like you, I've been waiting for almost 2 years. Appreciate the case extraction experience and accurace information. I'm still hoping to catch one here in Colorado before Christmas.


Regards from Colorado,


Tony

 

[44specialfan]

Bob ...

Specialty Sports in Colorado Springs got 2 S&W 43C's just before Christmas and I was able to snag one yesterday leaving one in the case when I left. Went to the range but was only able to fire 2 cylinders through her. Accuracy was excellent; case extraction required a hard strike using the palm of my hand each time; trigger pull clearly increased with increased firing; 2 misfires with one of the two discharging on the 2nd strike.

Given no cleaning before hitting the range + excellent accuracy, I'm happy. Believe the basics of an excellent revolver are all there and that with decent care and increased use the negatives will go away.

I'll post more detailed info once I gain more 1st hand experience with the 43C.


Regards from Colorado,


Tony

 

[RPM1965]

I have fired my 43C several times with no FTFs or mechanical problems. Could it be the bulk ammo?

 

[HLG]

Tony....
I'm glad you finally found one. I still haven't had any extration or FTF problems with mine after over 500 rounds of various brands of ammo. I usually only shoot 100 rounds at a time. I hope your problems were only from not cleaning yours before testing.
Herb

 

[jdh]

Ordered mine Tuesday the gun shop called yesterday to let me know it was in. Wife cannot pull the trigger. Time to order a lady smith spring for it.