M617-6 light primer-strikes

[jcs266]

Hello to all,

I’ve sure been enjoying this forum. I’ve learned things and been impressed with the memberships’ knowledge and camaraderie.

I have a question I’m hoping you folks can chime in to help me with. I have a brand-new 4” S&W 617-6 which I’ve really been enjoying - it’s quickly become my favorite handgun. I’ve had it one month now and just finished putting the 270th round through it. A mixture of CCI and Federal. The trigger could do with a polishing but it’s not too bad. It’s been a blast to shoot.

My issue is that nearly every cylinder (10-shot) has one round that does not fire. I rotate the cartridge a wee bit and hit it again to get it to fire - but some rounds even need a third strike before they fire.

This gun is all-original factory condition (no spring kit or trigger job or tinkering has been done on it). I know when a lighter spring kit is installed there can be issues with light primer-strikes, but what do you suggest with this scenario?

Thanks!

 

[armorer951]

First, try a good thorough cleaning, especially of the cylinder assembly, and extractor. (under and on top of the extractor in particular)
Use a toothbrush.

Try some different brands of ammunition. Can you buy ammo for it out there?

Make sure the chambers are clean, (spotlessly clean inside) and the ammo is inserted fully into the chambers of the cylinder before closing it. Check the mainspring strain screw to see if it is tight. The screw is under the grips at the bottom front tang of the grip frame.

Mechanical checks: check the rear gauge or headspace with feeler gauge to see if it's in spec. .008" - .010"

Send it back to S&W....it's under warranty. Hold their feet to the fire, new revolvers are not supposed to malfunction.

 

[jcs266]

Thanks for the quick response. Yes it’s immaculately clean, under the extractor, etc. I’m meticulous about those things. Chambers are good.

Now as to the Mainspring Strain screw... just tighten it til snug? Or is it a graduating adjustment that this screw does as you tighten?

The head-space... Just slip a feeler gauge behind the cylinder at the firing pin and check it like I would a spark-plug?

Thanks so much for the help.

 

[armorer951]

Yep....mainspring should be all the way in. Not really supposed to adjust (lighten) the spring by backing the screw out. This causes ignition problems.

Yes sir, feeler gauge goes in between the breechface and the rear of the cylinder. I doubt if there is a problem with the headspace, but it won't hurt to check.

 

[jcs266]

The mainspring screw is tight. Still looking for my feeler gauge...

Thanks for your help.

 

[slickracer]

I would try some better ammo, I've had terrible luck with recently manufactured Federal.