S&W 1917 Restoration/Repair??

[Dwaine]

I inherited a 1917 S&W serial # 7083? (UNITED STATES PROPERTY under the barrel). This gun was carried by my grandfather so it will not be sold... It was reblued about 30 yrs ago and has aftermarket grips. I just noticed that the cylinder latch will not move to release the cylinder? Should I try to have the revolver restored or leave it as is? Need recommended sources for expert restoration. Thanks

 

[Stophel]

I would definitely have it fixed so that the cylinder will open (and make sure everything else is OK mechanically too), but I wouldn't refinish it or anything....well, I might come up with some nicer looking grips....

 

[pauls]

It may just be stuck due to some congealed oil or lubricant...occasionally some of my S & W cylinder releases will stick if I haven't played with them for awhile. I'd be willing to bet it's the same with your older revolver.

 

[Deacon KC]

May also be the ejector rod has backed out a bit.Try to tighten it by holding it with a piece of thin leather to protect the knurled part and turn with som vise grips.

 

[RKmesa]

Dwaine:

Get some Break Free CLP (the spray can type). Set your revolver latch side up on a sturdy paper plate. Take off the rubber grips (I recommend leaving them off and finding a nice set of wood S&W stocks

). Spray the CLP around the release latch, in between the cylinder and the frame, and at the front of ejector rod. Let sit for an hour or so.

My guess is that this will loosen it up. If that does not work, seek someone competent to help you remove the side plate and take a look inside. There are good instructions on how to do this on this site (use the search feature), but it is much better to have someone help and show you the first time.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.

 

[Dwaine]

Will try this tomorrow.. I appreciate the help...

 

[4864]

Dwaine,

Weclome to the Forum!

I too would say get the correct grips for it. Take the trigger shoe off as well and enjoy it. Do you know if the lanyard ring is still on the butt? I am thinking not due the Pacs grips on it. It if is gone you could find a replacement very easy.

 

[Scharfshutzen]

Dwaine:

I would suggest that you contact S&W directly and see you can send your M1917 directly to them for a limited repair dialogistic. Letting S&W repair an S&W handgun, no matter the age, should maintain the handgun's soundness and integrity for collector and authenticity proposes.

 

[Muley Gil]

The factory will not work on one that old, as they no longer have the parts available.