S&W Model 14 leading issue.

[SamuelGrath]

I have a Model 14 that is leading terribly at the breech (pitting). The cylinder throats measured out to 0.357 (using plug gauge) but the barrel slugged out to only 0.351! I believe I am experiencing the "barrel compression" issue I have read on this forum as I experienced renewed resistance at the end of the slugging process. Can anyone recommend an experience gun-smith I can send this to for fire-lapping? Is fire-lapping cheaper than a new barrel? I really like this revolver, feels good, would like to keep it for target practice. Any help would be appreciated..

 

[jepp2]

but the barrel slugged out to only 0.351

How confident are you of the .351" groove diameter? My 14-2 measures .356". Fire lapping going to mostly work on the lands. Do you have access to a v-anvil micrometer to accurately measure the 5 lands and grooves the S&W has?

[URL=http://s860.photobucket.com/user/jepp2/media/V-AnvilMicrometer5Flute_zps3b8e459f.jpg.html] [/URL]

 

[SamuelGrath]

No I just did the best I could with my Starret micrometer..

 

[Alk8944]

Read my post in this thread, it's #5: http://smith-wessonforum.com/reloading/439642-19-4-1st-firing-158gr-lswc-horrible-groups.html

Maybe it will help you understand why a bore slug cannot be measured with a micrometer! May help with understanding a bit about cast bullets and bullet fit too!