Model 22 Thunder Ranch

[Dale53]

Taz1911;
The demooners work well. However, for range use the simplest solution is to use the polymer RIMZ clips. They are very easy to use with NO tools - no tools needed. I reserve the steel full moon clips for "serious" use.

Here is a really nice tool for both loading and unloading steel full moon clips:

http://www.thefirearmsforum.com/showthread.php?t=7130

Here is a better tool just for "demooning":

http://www.midwayusa.com/esearch.exe/search?search_keyw...Search=Search_Button

I can unload a steel full moon clip in just a few seconds (two cases at a stroke) without damaging either myself OR the clips.

I have several different type tools but, again, for daily range use, I much prefer the Polymer RIMZ clips:

http://www.ezmoonclip.com/

I get nothing but solid enjoyment out of my two 625's (4" 625-8 Jerry Miculek Special and a 5" Model 625-6 1989 model). I honestly cannot say which I like the best. I have Red Dots on both of them so sight radius doesn't enter into the equation. They both handle brilliantly. I have Pachmayr Decelerator grips on them and they are comfortable to shoot with the heaviest loads.

I have a house full of handguns and these two are some of the most accurate revolvers I have.

NOTE: The 1917 S&W's were set up to use .45 ACP cartridges without clips in an emergency. However, the later 625's often will not allow this reliably. They require the moon clips to properly headspace the cartridges. Often you will get misfires without the clips. So, I never shoot them nor try to, without the clips.

I also bought a 1000 Starline Auto Rim cases and they just shoot like any other revolver cartridge - they headspace properly and do NOT need the clips. Since I cast my own bullets and reload, ammo expense is not a problem for me.

Dale53

 

[Taz1911]

What is the advantages and disadvantages of the poly

 

[Dale53]

The poly RIMZ clips only disadvantage is they don't hold the cartridges with as much security as the steel clips. However, for range use, they work perfectly well and require NO tools for use. The cartridges slip in and out of the RIMZ clips with ease. They also seem to last forever. I don't know how long they last because I have never had a failure. I have put them through hundreds of cycles.

Dale53

 

[Taz1911]

Originally posted by Dale53:
The poly RIMZ clips only disadvantage is they don't hold the cartridges with as much security as the steel clips. However, for range use, they work perfectly well and require NO tools for use. The cartridges slip in and out of the RIMZ clips with ease. They also seem to last forever. I don't know how long they last because I have never had a failure. I have put them through hundreds of cycles.

Dale53

Thanks order them but 2 weeks behind

 

[OIF2]

I love my 22-4...first ones were grouping somewhat low, but Smith took care of that with a lower front sight. Mine groups into one ragged hole at 20 yards with Black Hills ball. Recoil is way less than a .357. It's a fun gun to shoot, and a great field gun. Buy one.
Bob

 

[Dale53]

Taz1911;
The two weeks will go by quickly while you wait for your RIMZ clips. They are apparently in high demand. You will enjoy using them.

Dale53

 

[longhornscott]

OIF2,
Those grips are beautiful. Are they something that could be had from Smith and Wesson, or are they aftermarket? I have been looking for some decent Magnas to put on one of my N-frames for easier concealed carry, as the Targets, in all of their beauty, tend to print too much in my shirt.

 

[Taz1911]

Originally posted by longhornscott:
OIF2,
Those grips are beautiful. Are they something that could be had from Smith and Wesson, or are they aftermarket? I have been looking for some decent Magnas to put on one of my N-frames for easier concealed carry, as the Targets, in all of their beauty, tend to print too much in my shirt.

Yea where did you get those they are wweet

 

[Stophel]

I have no problems loading the shells into the metal clips with my fingers. Just snap them in. You can pull them out with a stick, if you have to...granted, it takes a good pull. They used to use an old .45 auto barrel to pull the shells off the clip with. I have the screwdriver-handled tube gizmo from Brownell's that works the same way. You can easily make one from a piece of 1/2" thinwall pipe, cutting a "hood" on one end to lever against the clip with.

Definitely get the Rimz clips!!! I don't know that I would completely trust them for a defensive situation (though I have never had any actually fall out of the clip, and I'd sure use them if I had them), they are great for plinking/range work.

You can shoot them without the clips, but you have to pull the empties out with your fingernails, which isn't usually too hard, since this is not a real high-pressure caliber.

 

[deanodog]

Give the full moon clips a chance and you will be glad you did.

 

[Taz1911]

They said to weeks already got them????? quality looks good load up nice will get them to the range. The moon clips that came with the TR you are not pulling out by hand with out some damage to your hands I had three guys try at the range and could not pull them out do not know if they break in but the five that came with the gun are tight as ****.

 

[OIF2]

Sorry about the delay in replying. Grips are by Don Collins. Available in various woods and with or without emblems. I like Don's work.
Bob

 

[REP]

Don has made grips for me in the past. I have 2 guns with white Dupont Corian he made. He is fast and does an exellent job.