Trigger Guard Screw on 32 HE

[Retired W4]

When I first started cleaning this ~1951 32 HE I noticed the trigger guard screw was not seated all the way down. I disassembled the gun and cleaned it. When I put it back together the screw was protruding even more. Thinking I might have it cross threaded, I tried a couple more times to get it to go in flush but this is what I ended up with. Otherwise the gun is in super high condition.

 

[armorer951]

Do you have another trigger guard screw to compare to this one? Perhaps someone has substituted an incorrect screw?

 

[OutAtTheEdge]

Is the cylinder stop functioning properly? I'd check to see if the spring is binding or if there is any fouling in the hole.

 

[gmarshall99]

The spring and the pin are not seated properly.

 

[Retired W4]

The cylinder stop is working properly. Just took the screw, spring and pin out again and tried the screw without the pin/spring. It stops at the same spot. I will have get another screw from a donor gun to see if that is the problem.

Will report.

 

[Retired W4]

OK, I have another 32 HE w/ SN about 30K lower. That screw starts turning in but stops shorter than the original. The threads in the gun look strong. I'm about ready to put it back with the screw protruding slightly.

I see now why S&W deleted that trigger guard screw. It's worse than the top side plate screw.