Model 22A Broke

[Tommat]

I purchased my 22A directly from a S&W rep who was demonstrating the gun at my local shooting range. I absolutely love this gun, but unfortunately the slide stop broke off. I probably have not shot more than 300 rounds through it. Is S&W still fixing or replacing defective guns? Is there anyway to fix the problem myself like maybe welding a new piece on it?

Disappointed in North Idaho

 

[lihpster]

The part you need is called the spring plate assembly. Available on ebay for about 20$ +shipping. As far as disassembly and reassembly, try checking youtube for a video tutorial. 22As are great little guns. Well worth the money and time to fix it.

 

[Tommat]

The part you need is called the spring plate assembly. Available on ebay for about 20$ +shipping. As far as disassembly and reassembly, try checking youtube for a video tutorial. 22As are great little guns. Well worth the money and time to fix it.

I am talking about the tab on the back of the sight rail. Broke right off. Is there a way to fix this part? Will S&W replace the sight rail with an upgraded one?

 

[Tom S.]

S&W will fix it. Call them and they will send you a prepaid shipping label.

 

[glenwolde]

Unfortunately S&W probably won't be able to fix it as that gun is long out of production. They might give you a coupon for a new gun.

Is your gun a 22a or a 22a-1? Did you break off the hook that engages with the frame?

 

[Tommat]

Unfortunately S&W probably won't be able to fix it as that gun is long out of production. They might give you a coupon for a new gun.

Is your gun a 22a or a 22a-1? Did you break off the hook that engages with the frame?

22A. Yes, the hook at the rear end of the sight rail broke off, essentially rendering the gun useless. This gun has had very little usage. It was discovered when the slide was back to rack a round. The gun literally came apart.

 

[glenwolde]

22A. Yes, the hook at the rear end of the sight rail broke off, essentially rendering the gun useless. This gun has had very little usage. It was discovered when the slide was back to rack a round. The gun literally came apart.

That's not an uncommon issue with the 22a. It caused enough problems that on the 22a-1 they redesigned it. I have a 22a-1 and it's a little different. The problem with the 22a is when you disassemble it, you are supposed to only raise the barrel just enough to clear the post then move the barrel to the rear to disengage that hook from the frame. But of course a lot of owners swing it too high (easy to do) which stresses the hook. They were cracking, then breaking. On the 22a-1 the hook on the barrel is spring steel, replaceable, and shaped differently.

Maybe S&W has some barrels held back for repairs, but last time I tried to buy one they said they were out. You can look for a replacement barrel but I'd still contact S&W. They might give you a coupon towards a Victory which is the replacement for the 22a-1.

 

[Tommat]

Thank you for the help. Much appreciated.