Strange Modifications to My Schofield

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

A couple years ago, I purchased a 2nd Model Schofield at auction and
this one has some modifications I am curious about. I noticed a while
ago that the rear edge of the cylinder chambers were chamfered (to
speed loading?) but last night, I realized the recoil shield had been flat-
ten around the firing pin area.

I don't know why one would do these things but the modifications were
done professionally. Here are some pics:









Any Ideas?

Cheers!
Webb

 

[gmborkovic]

The firing pin hole on the shield had probably developed a "pucker" and was filed down.
Could have produced a drag on the base of the shells. What leads you to believe the work was done professionally?

 

[Schof45]

Webb,
Not sure if I understand your question correctly but only the 1st model Schofield had the recoil shield bushing. The second model had improved steel quality and did not require the recoil shield.
Petter

 

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

I am aware the 2nd. Model did not use a firing pin bushing. I was referring
to the raised section of the recoil shield around the firing pin.

I don't think this mod was done simply to remove the peening from dry
firing. Too much metal was removed. This raised area was designed so
that the bulging of early cartridges when fired would rotate off of this
plateau and not drag the whole way around. It was needed for the correct
headspacing.

The machining lines across the shield are all parallel and flat. These would
not be so regular if produced by hand filing and it looks to me that some
kind of machinery was used (and hence the 'professional' appearance). Al-
though professional looking, I don't understand the purpose.

The chamfered openings of the chambers I assume were to improve the
loading speed but I don't see how the recoil shield mod adds to the speed
much.

Still interesting to contemplate.
Cheers!
Webb