Smith and Wesson No 2

[SWAMPMAN]

I have a S&W No 2 in 32 rimfire. I do not want the gun restored but I would like it to be made functional. It needs a new hand
and the barrel hinge is loose. Any recommendations on a gunsmith that can fix this? I don't mind waiting for the work but two years is my limit.

 

[glowe]

Your location might help get you someone close to your home, but I have learned that there are not many gunsmiths who will work on a 150 year old handgun. Have you done any work on handguns? If so, the hinge issue is normally not too hard a repair. The fork of the hinge as it is attached to the frame will wear and can spread over time. A very thin bushing can be made to slip into the hinge to help correct the problem. I have also compressed the hinge (without the barrel attached) slightly until the barrel slides into place with some difficulty and that will also do the job. As for the hand, it will be very unlikely that any are available anywhere online. You could post a WTB part request in this Forum, since the best place to find spare parts is from a group of dedicated collectors. Good luck.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Is the hand broken or just worn? If worn, you may be able to peen it. Same thing for the ratchet teeth. Jackfirstgun.com makes and sells parts but may not have made any for the #2. I believe he will make parts if he has something to copy.

You might give Bob Cogan of ACCURATE PLATING AND WEAPONRY 2015 | APWCOGAN a call. He constructed a new hammer for my Colt Frontier Six Shooter from the one some bubba had butchered. He does excellent custom work, but I don't know if he wants to take on an old S&W.

 

[opoefc]

Even if you can find a gunsmith who says he is qualified and will work on your gun, the cost will far exceed the value of the gun. Best solution is sell what you have and buy a functional Model 2. They are very common on auction sites, or look for another Model 2 in junker condition that has the parts you need. That's assuming the gun does not have a family heirloom connections and therefore priceless to you.
Gary's suggestion for tightening the hinge is a common and usually successful method and can be easily applied to your gun. Good luck, Ed..