SD40 Slide catch keeps disapeering?

[Daddyschatz]

I have had my SD40 in service twice in 2 weeks time and by the time I get it back again, it will be gone over 6weeks (atleast). the loads I use in my SIG are to "hot" for the smith? this is the second time the slide catch has blown off the gun never to be found. S&W service dont have the parts and it is unknown when they will have them. anyone else have this problem?

 

[marlin.357]

STOP!!!!

1. Something is SERIOUSLY wrong here!
2. What loads are you using?
3. STOP using them!
4. DO NOT fire the gun again until you get it back from S&W.
5. Explain to S&W why you are returning the gun and include the load data tor the loads you are using.

 

[Daddyschatz]

im sorry, let me add more details...
the first time it happened I was using 6gr of unique with 185swc....this was a worked upto load in both guns.

the next time it happened I was using 4.7gr of HP38 with the 185swc.

after using the unique in the 40 and my 38spl, i decided to change powders as this is very dirty and it doesnt meter well at all.

 

[marlin.357]

I don't load for the 40 S&W, so I won't comment on your loads, but (there's always a BUT) but load data must include bullet type, weight, powder type and weight, AND cartridge overall length, as deep seating will increase chamber pressure.

I will say again, if parts are flying off the gun when fired, STOP firing the gun.

Maybe your powder scale is out of calibration, or maybe your COAL is too short, or maybe your crimps are too loose and the bullets are being driven too deeply when feeding, or maybe there is a mechanical problem with your pistol I dunno, but parts coming off the pistol when fired is a danger sign!!!

FWIW I have not heard any other reports of Sigmas or SD's launching their slide stops.

 

[Garpo]

anyone else have this problem?

Nope, in my 40 plus years around firearms I have never experienced that nor have I ever heard of that happening. This one has really got my curiosity going. Do keep us informed.

 

[JP Morgan]

.-.

I've had best results using Federal No. 100 primers
and Titegroup powder with a "firm" Lee Factory crimp,
all weights of bullets but no lead cast bullets.
Barrys bullets even do very well with their thin skin copper.

I used to load only Unique powder but it burns dirty
compared to Titegroup.
I've got the Lee Turret press, auto indexing and the Lee
Pro Auto Disc power measure.
Max loads shoot the best for my SD40 using the Titegroup.
No pressure signs whatsoever...

JP

 

[Daddyschatz]

i cast my own bullets, they have a hardness of appox 15. I have shot probably 1000 of the current load of 4.7gr of hp-38, and I really like it. not so much as a hiccup out of the SIG. hopefully S&W can get it right this time. I really like the way the SD feels and carries, but if its not dependable, its no good.

 

[Garpo]

hopefully S&W can get it right this time. I really like the way the SD feels and carries, but if its not dependable, its no good.

I'm picking up my SD today and I intend to shoot the snot out of it next week. I expect it to be as dependable as my Sigma 9ve. However, being that they are mechanical devices, we are bound to run across a lemon now and then. S&W should make it right for you.

 

[Interex]

sounds to me like it wasnt the guns fault , all guns have tolerances when you exceed the recomended tolerances thats when things break ,theres a reason why these tolerences are in place , because malfuntions like the one described occur , I think using the loads you used weakened the slide (obviously) and to continue to use these loads is a failure that you havent yet recognized, its not Smiths fault that you dont heed the warnings !

 

[RedFalconBill]

i cast my own bullets, they have a hardness of appox 15. I have shot probably 1000 of the current load of 4.7gr of hp-38, and I really like it. not so much as a hiccup out of the SIG. hopefully S&W can get it right this time. I really like the way the SD feels and carries, but if its not dependable, its no good.

For a high pressure pistol round like the .40 S&W, IMO, a BHN of 15 is a bit soft.

You did not include COAL, primer type, mold maker, lube, case trim length.

Also, your Unique load is a bit above max.