the other lock problem

[rockdoc]

I have a 60-18; 5" J frame, I bought new years ago. Light occasional use. Today was showing someone the lock (which I've never used), and guess what- this one doesn't lock. Key turns, flag comes up, hammer comes back, trigger is pulled. I pulled the side plate; very clean inside. Any ideas short of sending it to S&W?

Steve

 

[andyo5]

Did you buy the gun new, or used?

 

[RV4driver]

" I bought new years ago"

Have you ever tried to activate the lock before?

 

[andyo5]

OK. I missed where you said it was bought new.
Unless you are familiar with amateur gunsmithing it needs to go back to the factory. They will pay for shipping both ways. You need to call customer service.

 

[Penmon]

Your lock isn't working, thats great.leave it alone as it appears to be leaving you alone.

 

[Handgun Hunter]

I own many guns with a lock that I have no idea if they work, as I've never tried to lock them. As long as they don't lock by themselves, I'm happy.

 

[steelslaver]

I have 2 guns with the "lock" Have absolutely no idea if the work and no plans on trying them. If it bothers you call the factory.

I do think its kinda funny that it failed. Glad you aren't the kind of moron that would show it off by point it at something or somebody and pulling the trigger while loaded.

 

[gnystrom]

Regretfully, I would contact S&W. A "potentially defective" lock could be the most dangerous of all. I really have no opinion one way or the other on their locks but if I had one that failed to do what it was supposed to, I would be very concerned every time I fired a shot.

Perhaps some pictures with the side plate off would help us all determine what is going on.

 

[DFrame]

Like many others here. I have no idea if the lock on mine works. I've never even thought about attempting to lock it. The key is in the box, untouched, along with the worthless fired casing.

 

[Ashlander]

When I buy a new gun with a lock, I always make sure it is totally unlocked (fully turn the key). I would hate to have the lock "almost" engaged when recoil or bump could tick the lock mechanism into blocking the action.

 

[Pizza Bob]

Perhaps the D-shaped lug on the flag has broken off - it isn't integral to the flag. If that's the case, I would just check the internals to make sure it isn't rattling around in there. If it's not, I'd leave well enough alone - unless you really want the lock.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

 

[rockdoc]

so, looks like previous owner (thought I had bought it new, but I guess not, long time and many guns ago....) ground down the nub that locks the gun. What is this part called? Lock Flag? And, where can I get a replacement? Brownells doesn't sell it, and S&W doesn't either. Short of sending it to S&W to have them replace the part, does anyone have an extra lying around?

rockdoc

 

[andyo5]

You may find a local gunsmith who can do it.
If the nub is missing, at least you won't have an accidental lockup. I doubt you will have any problems with it.

 

[rockdoc]

I can do the work, it's just a question of finding the part.

 

[andyo5]

I can do the work, it's just a question of finding the part.

I don't doubt that. The problem, as you have found, is finding the part.
S&W will not send you one because of liability concerns. They will insist on installing anything that is part of a safety system.
Maybe someone on the forum who has removed their lock will give or sell you theirs. Try placing an ad in the 'wanted to buy' forum.

 

[flintsghost]

I can do the work, it's just a question of finding the part.

Try calling S&W and buy the part from them or get them to send you one free. However, I agree with some of your responses to just leave it alone. That's the way they made it and it's better that it doesn't work.

 

[lamarw]

I personally consider your gun a safety issue as it stands. Although, you are aware the lock does not function a future owner(s) may not and attempt to depend upon it. There could even be a future owner who would think the lock was activated with the flag up and leave it around children.

Please either repair the lock or have the lock hole plugged so there will never be any room for doubt or even worse a mistake. It is our responsibility as gun owners to take any and every safety precaution.

 

[rockdoc]

I totally agree, and will fix it either way.

 

[gnystrom]

I like the "plug" option in your situation. It clearly defines what is going on with that particular firearm.

 

[Dave Lively]

If you want the lock fixed try calling S&W and tell them what you told us. You bought the gun new and the previous owner disabled the lock. Since this could be a liability issue there is a chance S&W would fix it for free or for low cost.

If it was my gun I would try that and if they wanted to charge for it put a plug in. I never use the lock but if it is there it should work.