trying to analyze light strike or malfunction

[govt 380]

novice, with my "new to me" 64-3. started new ammo, winchester white box, and may have had two light strikes?
i checked strain screw and cannot tighten it with modest pressure. i have been firing all single action. i notice that if i ease the hammer down with slight trigger pull, to avoid dry firing, sometimes when i pull back the hammer again, the cylinder does not rotate again. is that normal? thanks,

 

[Fishinfool]

Not firing could be a modified or damaged strain screw, too light a main spring, damaged firing pin, bad ammo, several possibilities.

On a S&W revolver, if you have the gun cocked, then lower the hammer part way while holding the trigger back, and re-cock, it will not turn the cylinder. If you are fully lowering the hammer, then re-cocking, and the cylinder still does not turn, then there is a problem with the gun.

Larry

 

[ChazFraz]

The previous owner may have filed down the strain screw and replaced the springs. Not an uncommon modification. Some think they improve the trigger by lightening it.

MidwayUSA and others will sell you a new strain screw and spring kit to bring your S&W up to "spec". Cost is small and its an easy fix.

Have fun with the 64. I love 38 k-frames. Nearly a perfect gun.