Model 629

[stoogeweb]

Hello All,

I have an older 629, 8 3/8" recently purchased used. I was having a frequent problem opening the cylinder release. Very hard to push forward and now it won't move at all. In the past if I rotated the cylinder (which still rotates fine) and it seemed to free it up. I have lubricated it recently to try and solve the issue and now it won't open at all. I am at a loss.

Thoughts from ye olde wise ones?

Much appreciated. I love the gun but clearly can not enjoy it at the moment. Do I need a smith?

Stoogeweb

 

[greenmachine]

Good question. I have an early 29-2 nickel with the same 'hard to push forward' cylinder release. Mine does open OK, but only with a lot of effort pushing on the release button.

 

[greenmachine]

Could someone at least advise us as to whether these guns might need some attention from a gunsmith or is there a simple solution? We both thank you.

 

[Neumann]

The most common cause is an extractor which is partly unscrewed from the cylinder (star). If the cylinder won't open, the quick solution is to cock the revolver until you can slip a shim between the lock and the cylinder, then hold the extractor and turn the cylinder. S&W changed from RH threads to LH sometime in the past. Make a mental note which one your revolver has.

If that solves the problem, tighten the extractor with a tool designed for that purpose. Pliers will crush or mar the extractor. Don't use Loc-Tite. Don't over tighten. Fill the cylinder with empty, fired cases to hold the star in place.

 

[stoogeweb]

Thanks for the input. It is not a question of the cylinder not opening, but a question of the cylinder release not being able to move. Any and all input is appreciated. I know there are a lot of people out there way more experienced than I and as previously mentioned by Greenmachine, if it's off to a smith then so be it.
Thanks,
Chris

 

[Skinny]

If your not comfortable with disassembly and lack the PROPER tools, don't fool with it, take it to a smith. Just my .02 good luck !

 

[viceunit]

Thanks for the input. It is not a question of the cylinder not opening, but a question of the cylinder release not being able to move. Any and all input is appreciated. I know there are a lot of people out there way more experienced than I and as previously mentioned by Greenmachine, if it's off to a smith then so be it.
Thanks,
Chris

Just trying to clarify your problem. You say no issue opening the cylinder - but the cylinder release will not move forward - right? How then, are you opening the cylinder? If the trigger somehow is not fully resetting forward the hammer will be oh-so slightly interfering with the bolt preventing forward movement. That is one possible cause.

Like someone posted earlier, if you have the tools and are familiar with side plate removal you can observe the interaction of the parts and may be able to diagnose the cause.

 

[USBP SW]

Sometimes on older firearms the oil turns to something more like varnish. When this happens, disassembly and cleaning is required. A little kroil might loosen it up some. I have seen one instance where a fellow took a spill and landed on his revolver, the center pin was nearly sheared and after finally getting it open with a pin punch, the pin needed to be replaced.

I hope this gives you someplace to start, Steve

 

[stoogeweb]

Update - sent to S&W. 6 week wait but came back 100% functional. No mention of what the problem was but the best part - NO CHARGE!