New to Me Model 10 Light Strikes

[PlipperPete]

Hi all,

Recently I bought a S&W 10-10 from my local gun shop for $350. It's marked CDC for CA Dept. of Corrections. It shot well with CCI Blazer 125gr and Federal American Eagle 158gr, but had light strikes with reloads and 158gr Armscor.

Single action works fine, but double action it's about 50/50. Looking at the screws, it's clear the previous owner opened it up. I think the screw that tensions the mainspring was cut. The screws are also extremely tight and the heads are buggered. I applied some penetrating oil to them, but have not attempted to unscrew them since.

Three questions:
1. What is a quality gunsmith screwdriver kit? I have some hollow ground bits and a driver, but they are made for electronics, so I can't get enough leverage on these really tight screws.

2. Where can I find the correct replacement main spring tension screw?

3. Any tips for loosening these stripped screws? What size is the correct bit? 5/32"?

Thank you,
Nick

 

[oldbrownhat]

Best bet for screwdrivers are the ones Brownell's sells. They have a set for S&W.

As to the tension screw, I couldn't find it on the Brownells website, but (going from memory) I think the thread is 8-32 and folks sometimes just use an 8-32 set screw. Someone here on the Forum may have a spare factory screw.

I just checked my Model 10. The OAL length of the screw is 0.581" and it extends inside the frame to the mainspring by about 0.180". If you can get a factory screw, of course, you won't have to worry about how far in it goes- just tighten until the shoulder stops further movement.

Loosening tight screws? One word: KROIL! Expensive and might be hard to find, though. I've read that PB Blaster is also pretty good. There is a thread on Kroil here in the Smithing section.

 

[DWalt]

Some people put a fired primer cup with anvil removed over the end of the tensioning screw to make it a bit longer. Worth a try.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Like I said in another thread in this section, call S&W and the parts department will send you the screws and strain screw you need for your revolver.

I don't remember what I paid but I do remember thinking, that's not a bad price.

(USA) 1-800-331-0852
Monday-Friday 8:00AM-4:45PM EST

 

[SWOOP01]

The last strain screw I had to get, I picked up from Midway.