Model 66-1 cylinder lock up.

[andyo5]

I have a nice M66-1 that has..I can't really say it is a 'problem'...but I'd like to change it.

In double action, the cylinder seems to become locked by the cylinder stop just barely before the hammer drops. On one of the six bore holes, you can feel the cylinder stop pop into the slot, but not on the others. It would be easier for me to 'stage' the trigger if I could feel the cylinder stop pop into place every time.

The gun shoots well and does not spit or shave bullets. The cylinder stop does seem to be somewhat rounded, not with sharp edges; and there is barely a turn line visible on the cylinder in spite of moderate use. I should mention that I am at least the second owner, maybe third or fourth for all I know.

One way of looking at it is that maybe the cylinder stop spring is weak and in need of replacement. Another way of looking at it is perhaps the hand is not rotating the cylinder as quickly as it could, so it locks up late.

I'm not sure whether either of these approaches is valid. I am considering whether to replace the cylinder stop and spring with new ones, and perhaps the hand as well.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[armorer951]

If the cylinder/barrel alignment is correct, you could start by replacing the cylinder stop spring, to see if that helps. Also check for peening on the lead in side of the cylinder stop slots, damage to the stop ball, and be sure that the stop slots are clean....spotlessly clean, all the way to the bottom. Also, make sure the stop cavity in the frame and the stop itself are both clean, and the stop itself is properly lubricated. (light oil, Rem oil for example))

If you are concerned that the carry up is late, then a different, slightly wider hand would likely make the action carry up a bit earlier. If you mike your hand for width (it's likely around .092-.093) I've got some extra ones I can send (at no charge) for you to substitute to see is that cures the issue.