Model 36 non pinned trigger doesnt return

[chrishu44]

I have a nickel model 36 that I got recently as new in box. Its a older model I assume made in the 80's cause its doesn't have the pinned barrel. It's always had a gritty trigger, and its hard to pull double action. But recent the trigger is staying at the rear, it sometimes needs a slight push with your finger. I removed all the internals except the trigger, hand, and bolt and it still locks to the rear. I removed the trigger lubed it well, didn't help.

 

[armorer951]

Check the action with the cylinder open....open the cyl and hold the cylinder release back, then cycle the action. Does it malfunction (trigger fail to return) when the cylinder is open? If not, one or more of the ratchets may be long, or damaged.

 

[chrishu44]

I think you may be right, cylinder open the trigger is smooth like a smith and wesson should be. An yes the trigger fails to return, dry firing with snap caps it goes one, two, three, four, five, on the fifth chamber trigger stays to the rear.

 

[Pef]

Sounds like one ratchet is not right. Look where the hand goes. The problem ratchet is the one at about 3:00 when the trigger is pulled and then sticks. If you don't know how to smooth it out you may want to take it to a smith....good luck

 

[chrishu44]

Yea that's what its looking like a trip to the smith. Luckily theres one close by, I guess its good I caught it now and not when I might need it.

 

[chrishu44]

Just gonna update I was able to very carefully polish the ratchet with 2,000 grit sandpaper. The trigger is returning ever time now so no more locking up.

 

[Hondo44]

Good for you! There's nothing like the reward of figuring it out oneself and fix it. Especially when a trip to the smith and wait time is avoided.