Replace Hammer Nose Rivet - Questions

[Sparks]

Technical input needed on replacement of the hammer nose (firing pin) rivet please. Previously I have re-used the rivet, backing it out partially, then re-staking only one side. In that case, the rivet goes back to its original shape with both ends sitting below flush. I'm using a dedicated S&W bench tool by Power Custom.

When replacing the rivet with a new one, (Brownells part), I discovered that after some careful staking, a little bit on each side, the rivet sits correctly below flush on one side but extends above flush on the other. Fixing that one side without scratching the hammer is tricky. Are new rivets supplied oversize, and in need of trimming before installation? Is it my technique that needs some fine tuning?

Thank You,
Sparks

 

[paulj84003]

I don't know about Brownell rivets. Factory rivits of which i have put in somewhere over 200 during the 586 686 recall and using a bench block and punch all came out a tad below flush both sides.
Paulj

 

[CALREB]

Yes that a common problem with alot of "factory" parts that dont actually come from the factory. A year or so ago I was replacing some slides in S/W sights for a guy. He had new slides and new spring/ plunger sets from Brownells. None of the new plungers would fit into the adjustment screw, they could be forced in, but would lock up .Just used the old ones, went right in. Not really Brownells fault, who ever made them for them just didnt make them right. Seems like alot of aftermarket stuff need some sort of tinkering with. Bob
Of course when he called either Brownells or C&S to tell them, they advised I must have been doing it wrong, not oiling the screw or something..

 

[chief38]

I've replaced only 2 Firing Pins in 35+ years and was able to reuse the original rivet both times.

I am not familiar with after market (Brownell's) or even replacement Factory rivets as I lucked out re-using the original both times.