question: grip/stock pin for model 66

[loveaffair#686]

Hello, folks. I'm a bit flummoxed by this. I got some new grips for my 66-2 3". When I finally went to put them on, they wouldn't stay put, and I noticed (please see image 1) that the grip/stock pin is not part of the frame. So looking at the parts diagram, I see that that part is called a stock pin, and order one on eBay. Pin does not fit in hole (see image 2). I assume that one or more of the following explain the problem I am having:

1) I completely have no idea what I'm talking about, and this thread will be moved to the Hall of Shame.

2) This is not the right size pin.

3) The pin needs to be inserted more forcefully...perhaps hammered in?



Some additional thoughts: Why does the gun not have the pin integral to the frame? Is there any advantage to this? I've not noticed this before and this condition does not exist on my other S&W revolvers. *OR* Does that pin actually come out of all other S&W and I've never noticed it before? Don't have one with me to check right now...

Also, the original Magna grips that came on the gun stayed on just fine. There must have been some kind of pin holding the grips in place, right? Perhaps I just dropped it removing these grips and didn't notice. In any case, it's long gone

 

[-db-]

The pin is a press fit and will require some tapping with a hammer. Don't try to force it, however. It's possible the one you got is indeed oversized.

 

[ROK]

The stock pin for my M64 was in a small bag with the paperwork.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

It's a roll pin, right? It should tap right in. A solid pin would be more problematic if oversized.

 

[loveaffair#686]

It's a roll pin, right? It should tap right in. A solid pin would be more problematic if oversized.

It's a solid pin. I'll go easy with the hammer and see if there's any chance it will go in...



Added: It won't fit. Oh well, back to the drawing board. Thanks, everyone!

 

[kthom]

It's possible someone sent you a pin that is used in some higher end S&W Grips, especially the Pro models. Those grips come with two metal pins that look like the one you have pictured and fit in the top and bottom of the front side of the grips to index them together. I betcha if you would call S&W and ask, they would send you the proper pin to fit in the frame to index your grips on.

 

[Laketime]

A lot of used guns that had Hogue GRIPS on had no stock pin.I use to make one from a wire coat hanger.

 

[loveaffair#686]

A lot of used guns that had Hogue GRIPS on had no stock pin.I use to make one from a wire coat hanger.

Now there's an interesting idea...hmmm. Thanks again, folks!

 

[VM]

loveaffair#686 - I just got out calipers and two styles of Factory pins.
The later style roll pins that are hollow measure .113"-.116".
The solid (earlier) pin measures .119"- .120".
I have used the solid pins on later guns and I drive them in with hard plastic or brass hammer head.
You need to have the grip frame on a flat/sturdy surface (with hole in frame exposed).
Send me a PM if you need assistance.

 

[rock doc]

I lost one when changing out grips to my 642 and fashioned one from a stainless steel finishing nail of the right diameter.

 

[frankcr]

It is just a locating pin. If the hole is drilled for a roll pin, I would be very leery of driving in a larger diameter pin, as that press fit would be too tight.

 

[Engine49guy]

I purchased a Model 27-2 several years ago that had a nail in place of the pin,
S&W sent me a roll pin that fit perfectly,

The roll pin is hollow with a slot cut lengthwise so it will compress when driven in adjusting itself to the correct size and remaining in place under that compressed "spring" pressure.

 

[smokey04]

When I need pins I use drill rod. Use a cheap drill as close to the size you need. Chuck the cutting flutes end in a drill chuck and use a file or emory to work it to size for a press fit then cut it to the length you want and polish the burrs off. Nick

 

[loveaffair#686]

UPDATE (I'm sure you were all waiting for this )

Got a new pin and put it in. Problem solved.

But...

Why do the two types of frames exist (with and without integral grip pin)? It seems like no type of grip would fit without the grip pin to keep the grip from sliding around at the bottom. Anyone know? I'm sure there is a reason.

 

[Pizza Bob]

Why do the two types of frames exist (with and without integral grip pin)? It seems like no type of grip would fit without the grip pin to keep the grip from sliding around at the bottom. Anyone know? I'm sure there is a reason.

All frames have the grip pin at the bottom of the grip frame. As stated before, some have a solid pin and some (most?) use a roll pin. If you bought your gun new, it was too loose and you lost it somewhere along they way. If purchased on the secondary market, chances are that it was, at one time, fitted with Hogue grips. The old Hogue hardware arrangement required that pin be removed in order to install their mounting stirrup. The newer Hogue hardware utilizes that pin to install the mounting stirrup.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

 

[loveaffair#686]

THANK YOU!

I can't believe I've been so dense. I got out some other revolvers and, of course, they have a pin. I guess I never looked closely enough to realize that it was actually an inserted pin, rather than part of the frame itself. Thanks again for your patience, everyone...and for not making fun of my dopey question!!

All frames have the grip pin at the bottom of the grip frame. As stated before, some have a solid pin and some (most?) use a roll pin. If you bought your gun new, it was too loose and you lost it somewhere along they way. If purchased on the secondary market, chances are that it was, at one time, fitted with Hogue grips. The old Hogue hardware arrangement required that pin be removed in order to install their mounting stirrup. The newer Hogue hardware utilizes that pin to install the mounting stirrup.

Adios,

Pizza Bob