Slide release lever won't rotate

[40 Shield]

Greetings,
I purchased a new .40 Shield yesterday and found that the slide release lever would not rotate or show any sign of movement.
What is going on?

 

[ATF]

Probably a stupid question but have you pulled the slide back all the way until the semi-circle notch of the slide is above the takedown lever? Also the frame pin could be protruding.

 

[tbgunner88]

Are you talking about the slide stop or take down lever? If it's the take down lever the only thing I can think of is the same as ATF said.

 

[40 Shield]

Probably a stupid question but have you pulled the slide back all the way until the semi-circle notch of the slide is above the takedown lever? Also the frame pin could be protruding.

Thank you for the response. But,yes, the D notch is in the correct position. The slide release just absolutely shows NO sign of rotataion at all.

 

[ATF]

Thank you for the response. But,yes, the D notch is in the correct position. The slide release just absolutely shows NO sign of rotataion at all.

That's really weird it has to move if it's in the correct position maybe try some force with a hammer and some wood or nylon punch but don't go crazy.

 

[40 Shield]

Are you talking about the slide stop or take down lever? If it's the take down lever the only thing I can think of is the same as ATF said.

Thanks for the reply. I am really disappointed. Looks like I bought a lemon. Sorry, but I am extremely unhappy about this.

 

[Dandecoteau]

It's called a slide catch, not a slide release for a reason.

You won't be able to release the slide by pulling that lever down until it's broken in.

 

[Bozz10mm]

Are you trying to lock the slide back, or are you trying to release the slide forward?

 

[tbgunner88]

It's called a slide catch, not a slide release for a reason.

You won't be able to release the slide by pulling that lever down until it's broken in.

I think he's talking about the take down lever that rotates and allows you to take the slide off the pistol, not the slide stop.

 

[tbgunner88]

Thanks for the reply. I am really disappointed. Looks like I bought a lemon. Sorry, but I am extremely unhappy about this.

Yeah I can't blame you for being upset, wish I would help more but it's hard to do much without having the pistol in my hands. Maybe take it back where you bought it and see what they can figure out, and if they can't get it working then I'm sure S&W will take care of it for you, they are known for their great customer service. Good luck.

 

[40 Shield]

Are you talking about the slide stop or take down lever? If it's the take down lever the only thing I can think of is the same as ATF said.

Thanks for the reply. I am really disappointed. Looks like I bought another lemon. sorry, but I am extremely unhappy about this.

 

[ATF]

If you can't do this take it back to the shop you bought it from or call S&W and they will sort it out.

[ame]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTvujx8WTkw[/ame]

 

[Saudade]

Please clarify what you are trying to do.

Are you trying to field strip it thus removing the slide from the frame?

Or are you trying to load a round by pressing the slide lock?

If the former, the takedown lever can be really tough to turn. The slide must be fully retracted and locked in place. It will loosen up with use.

If the latter, you're doing it wrong. It's a slide LOCK not a release. Page 18 of the manual clearly says "Pull the slide to the rear and release it, allowing it to carry fully forward. This strips a cartridge from the magazine and seats it in the chamber of the barrel."

However, many do use it as a release. This too will loosen up with use. Just bear in mind it's not the intended function.

 

[PirateJim]

When I first got mine I found that I had to pull the slide back as far as seemed right, and then pull it back some more to get the slide stop to engage manually. Dumb question perhaps, but have you tried with an empty magazine inserted?

 

[40 Shield]

That's really weird it has to move if it's in the correct position maybe try some force with a hammer and some wood or nylon punch but don't go crazy.

Thanx, but I tried this last evening. it didn't budge.(nylon hammer)

 

[ATF]

Thanx, but I tried this last evening. it didn't budge.(nylon hammer)

Ok call S&W and send it back. You'll be a happy camper

 

[40 Shield]

Please clarify what you are trying to do.

Are you trying to field strip it thus removing the slide from the frame?

Or are you trying to load a round by pressing the slide lock?

If the former, the takedown lever can be really tough to turn. The slide must be fully retracted and locked in place. It will loosen up with use.

If the latter, you're doing it wrong. It's a slide LOCK not a release. Page 18 of the manual clearly says "Pull the slide to the rear and release it, allowing it to carry fully forward. This strips a cartridge from the magazine and seats it in the chamber of the barrel."

However, many do use it as a release. This too will loosen up with use. Just bear in mind it's not the intended function.

Thanks for the reply. In answer to your qualified suggestions:

Are you trying to field strip it thus removing the slide from the frame? YES, The rotating

 

[PROnSHIELD]

Please tell us...by number...which part you are having issues with

 

[RobzGuns]

I would take it back to the store, to ensure it isn't something simple that's hanging up, then, if they can't get it... Let THEM send it in.

It's cheaper (and less hassle) for FFL/Shops to send than using FedEx/UPS, even if S&W CS sends a shipping label.

 

[CaptRon956]

The Shield is not a overly complicated machine... To remove the slide the easy way insert a empty mag, pull the slide back until it locks in place. Remove magazine. The slide release lever will then be able to be moved down, you may have to use some thumb pressure, after it is down, insert a small screwdriver or similar tool and push the yellow sear deactivator lever down and pull the slide off forward. There is nothing in there that can break or deform that would cause the slide release lever not to move.