Revolver Question

[model 19/39]

I recently acquired a model 19-5. While cleaning it a pin (which I honestly didn't even know was there) fell out of the cylinder from under the extractor. I'm sure I've seen these pins before but never paid them much attention. What is their function and how do you replace one? I found the original pin and the other is still in place in the cylinder body. And do I need to replace it before shooting it anymore? I hate to sound stupid but this has never come up in 30+ years of shooting.

 

[Hapworth]

The pins help align and secure the extractor. Wish I could help with answers to the rest of your questions; suggest asking mods to move this thread to the gunsmithing section and retitle with something specifically addressing the pins.

 

[armorer951]

cylinder alignment pins

Alignment pin(s) function is to keep the ejector aligned with the body of the cylinder during the extraction process. Helps prevent the extractor from binding, and prevents empty casings from slipping under the ejector itself.
Easiest way to repair is to clean the pin and hole, and then re-insert with a very small amount of thread lock. (Loctite, or similar) Use caution that you don't get the Loctite on surrounding parts or surfaces. Wipe off any excess and check fit prior to re-assy.
An alternative to using the thread locker would be to lightly peen one end of the pin prior to re-insertion into the hole. Peening the pin will enlarge the diameter of the end of the pin enough to hold it in place in the hole. Check for proper alignment prior to re-assembly.

 

[model 19/39]

Thanks for the advice guys. I felt like and idiot asking because I've had guns for so long but this one really threw me a curve. When I get back home I'll do the Loctite thing and that should work. I used a similar method on a Browning Hi Power trigger pin that worked really well. Just didn't know that particular piece's function.

 

[Tadeus67]

The same happened to me last year with a N frame. I took it to the gunsmith, he peened it a little, put locktite and voila! Have no issues with it again.