"W" mainspring

[Harkrader]

Just read a second reference to a "W" mainspring in a S&W revolver. This one said it was a factory option.

I can't find a single word about them. Can anyone inform me? Also, if it's such a good thing, can it be retrofitted? If so, is it too difficult for a person of modest mechanical skills to install?

 

[tt66]

The only one that I am familiar with was the 45 Cal Model of 1955. Some of those were shipped with a W mainspring.

 

[Protocall_Design]

Anyone have a picture?

 

[steelslaver]

Here is a thread with some photos of a W main spring
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-ha...ocks-post139649778.html?526264=#post139649778

Installing one wouldn't be that hard if you could find one. Making one would be possible but getting it all just right a serious challenge. I believe the front leg of the spring operated thee trigger return also.

 

[H Richard]

Not all that many were released, as the fitting was difficult and time consuming. Also, they didn't work out to be any advantage over the existing lockwork. The one I handled I couldn't tell any difference and couldn't tell it was a "W" until the stocks were removed.

 

[Harkrader]

Thanks for the link, steelslaver. That answered the questions I had. Just one of those little details more important to collectors than shooters.

 

[Patrick L]

I meant to post the very same question and just forgot to. There was a recent column in (I think?) GUNS magazine by (I think?) Tank Hoover referring to an older Smith he had picked up which had the "W" mainspring. That's all that was said, but there was a photo of it. I had never heard of this either. I assume it's purpose was to get a lighter and smoother trigger??

I too am curious for whatever anyone can add.

 

[153]

Elmer Keith thought the W mainspring was a great improvement.

 

[Culina]

I have a 5-screw 1955 target with the W-mainspring. It feels a little different than a standard main spring when pulling back the hammer, and you can feel it resonate a little when you pull the trigger. Mine does not have create enough energy to reliable ignite primers in double action mode, it works great single action though.

 

[Jeff423]

Seems like a solution in search of a problem. Unless they were trying to get a more "Colt" feel.

 

[Hondo44]

A failed experiment. It wasn't an option, they just showed up on some N frames in the mid-1950s and disappeared just as mysteriously.

As said above, reliable ignition was the biggest issue.