Send it in or DIY, what are my options?

[OSCAR MIKE]

Bought a used 15-22 and have put about 300 rounds of 550 Fed bulk pack down the pipe flawlessly. I have to say that this gun is fantastically fun! My serial# begins with DSZ and through some searching, this is an early model Serial. My gun definitely does not have the "blue springs" or the new extractor.

1. Is this gun doomed to have an OOB firing condition? Or do some of the older models function just fine over the long haul with the older springs and extractor?

2. Should/can I just go ahead and send it back to Smith so they can update it, or do I have to wait to have the problem? (I hope they're more proactive than that)

3. Where can I buy a new extractor assembly and springs to install myself when/if this occurs? Can I just have Smith send me some parts?

I hate to send a functioning weapon off for "repairs", but I also want to nip any future problems in the bud, ya know? Ideally I would just like some spare parts.

Thanks guys! Great forum, too, glad I found it.

 

[Brett248Vista]

No spare parts as of yet.. Got to send it back.

I sure wish they would start offering a small parts pack, the extractor takes hardly any effort to remove/replace.

 

[ceg54]

I've seen some old ones work just fine with no problems
at all

 

[whoppo]

Bought a used 15-22 and have put about 300 rounds of 550 Fed bulk pack down the pipe flawlessly. I have to say that this gun is fantastically fun! My serial# begins with DSZ and through some searching, this is an early model Serial. My gun definitely does not have the "blue springs" or the new extractor.

1. Is this gun doomed to have an OOB firing condition? Or do some of the older models function just fine over the long haul with the older springs and extractor?

2. Should/can I just go ahead and send it back to Smith so they can update it, or do I have to wait to have the problem? (I hope they're more proactive than that)

3. Where can I buy a new extractor assembly and springs to install myself when/if this occurs? Can I just have Smith send me some parts?

I hate to send a functioning weapon off for "repairs", but I also want to nip any future problems in the bud, ya know? Ideally I would just like some spare parts.

Thanks guys! Great forum, too, glad I found it.

Mine's a DTX... just a little newer than yours. With thousands of rounds fired, I've had no problems at all with mine other than the occasional mag-snag.
While mine came with the original "gray" springs, I did replace the trigger/hammer/disconnector springs with a JP 3.5 "Yellow" spring kit, which in addition to providing a nicer trigger experience, probably reduces the force needed to recock the hammer, subsequently improving the reliability of the action.... or so one might presume.

If you haven't already, installing the $10 JP spring kit is easy and REALLY makes a difference. It's one of the three best (and cheapest) mods I've done to mine.

(The other two are a Hogue grip and a BELT_FED extended charging handle latch.)

 

[BELT_FED]

upgrade to the j&p springs ive got over 20,000 rds threw my 1st gen gun with no issues at all .. get the springs they are around 10 bucks and the best insurance availible

 

[OSCAR MIKE]

Thanks for the responses, guys! I'll definitely order those springs, that makes perfect sense to me. Reduce the bolt drag by installing lighter FCG springs! Perfect. These are the ones, no? JP Rifles Great price, but they want $8.50 to ship them! Ouch. Is this the only place to buy them? Do these springs fit without cutting or modification?

Any idea when they will offer parts for sale? I think it's absolutely ridiculous that you can't buy an extractor assembly.

Thanks again!

 

[HalfSwiss]

Get the springs at Midway along with some other stuff you need and it's sort of painless. Here's the link
JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit AR-15 3-1/2 lb Reduced Power - MidwayUSA

 

[whoppo]

If you don't already have a long 1/8" punch, you'll need to grab one to remove the FCG. Something like this ( Smith & Wesson Extra Long Punch Set 5-Piece Steel - MidwayUSA ) is a bargain.

 

[OSCAR MIKE]

Thanks guys! Just so happens that I was about to make an order with Midway, this works out perfect! Getting the springs and the punches. I have always used an "alternative" (Alan wrench, etc..) it's about time I get some real punches.

Thanks again!