Model 29-3 Forcing Cone Erosion- At What Point Should I Worry?

[cgb]

My model 29-3. Nothing special, but is was my dads and has some sentimental value. I've shot all kinds of ammo through it, from reloads to factory ammo. Noticed the erosion last cleaning. At what point should I have this fixed, and who is good that does this kind of work? I assume the barrel needs to be set back and the forcing cone recut, gap reset?

 

[Alk8944]

When the erosion progresses to the outside rim of the barrel shank and the B-C gap starts to open.

 

[cgb]

OK, thanks. Does anyone recommend a Smith to do the work when the time comes?

 

[Voyager28]

The off set makes me think you have a timing problem that needs to be addressed right away. Cylinder is not lining up properly.

Bob



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[jaymoore]

The off set makes me think you have a timing problem that needs to be addressed right away. Cylinder is not lining up properly.

Bob

Could simply be the camera angle... or that the gap itself isn't uniform. (Not all that rare an occurence!) But since the offset is mostly vertically oriented, it seems unlikely that it's timing.

I'd worry when it either starts spitting at you or bystanders fiercely and regularly, or when accuracy starts to go. Otherwise you're just chasing your tail if you shoot hot loads regularly.

 

[Culina]

it looks only half way worn out to me.

 

[153]

Leave it alone, and when it does need repair, send it to S&W.

 

[Kid44]

Leave it alone, and when it does need repair, send it to S&W.

Great answer, thank you. Too many people here, and on other forums (of every kind) worry too much about things that may never become an issue, and if they do they are relatively minor when compared to everyday issues in life.

 

[H Richard]

How many hundred rounds a week do you fire it? You may be close to needing repair or quite a few years away. I think you probably have plenty of time to leisurely look around for a quality gunsmith and get on his waiting list.

 

[Bat Guano]

I've had two Security Sixes do that from a lot of factory .357/125s. When they got to spitting too much it took the fun out. It was time for them to go to the factory for new barrels.

A couple of years ago I picked up a well used Model 19 with a forcing cone that was worn to about the same extent as yours. Even though no new M19 barrels were available, the factory was able to set mine back about two turns, recut the forcing cone as new, and reset the gap. Practical effect, a new barrel. They also removed the cylinder endplay, etc. Cost quite reasonable.

I suspect they could do that for yours as well.