What Do You Think of This "Seam" and "Buffing"?

[gebomartin]

I just got my very first Revolver yesterday. 686 Plus purchased new from local gun shop. Got it home and started cleaning it up. Was a little offput by the "scratches" all over the frame but today I see this crack below the screw under the cylinder. Is this ok? I am ignorant and need your advice.

 

[serger]

That is the seam where the side plate fits the frame.

Here is a link to a exploded view of the revolver:

Smith & Wesson Model 686-1 Revolver Parts | Gun Parts Corp.

See how the side plate part 32, fits the frame part 25.

 

[gebomartin]

Yes sir. I know it is a seam but it looks like the coating over it is peeling off.

 

[walnutred]

You made a good choice for a 1st revolver.

 

[gebomartin]

Take it back. Whoever sold it to you should be horsewhipped.

What do I tell them? I am assuming you aren't pulling my leg.

 

[gebomartin]

You made a good choice for a 1st revolver.

I agree. Do you think it is a keeper? Is there anything wrong with it? The finish or the "seam"?

 

[serger]

Actually that's where the swedging of the plate to frame was a
little off. Not a thing to worry about IMHO. If It bugs you it's a thing. For me, not so much.

 

[bigwheelzip]

Maybe someone tried to pry the side plate off?

 

[gebomartin]

I guess I was expecting a little more for $759

 

[FlyFish]

I'm not seeing a crack either - just the normal sideplate seam others have mentioned. Maybe there is one, but I can't see it in these photos.

ETA: OK, that last closeup does show a little sloppiness at the very bottom of the seam for whatever reason, but I still don't think it's a crack and if it were my gun I'd just shoot it and enjoy.

 

[gebomartin]

You can't slide your nail over it without it hanging. The rear portion is raised up.

 

[FlyFish]

I think I'd be more concerned about the reason for the apparent gap between the frame and sideplate just under the cylinder. Or maybe the sideplate is sitting lower than the frame - it's hard to tell which from the photo. Either way, it appears to be a pretty bad misalignment.

 

[dusty3030]

My theory is someone got after it on a buffing wheel or some such.
They took it apart and did whatever they did to in in pieces (did the frame and side plate separate). When reassembled they no longer match up correctly.

Function shouldn't be affected by that alone. It has definitely been taken apart (look at screw heads) and it has definitely been buffed / polished or some such.

 

[gebomartin]

I should have asked, "Is this seam ok?"

 

[gebomartin]

Can I fix what appears to be overly aggressive buffing?

 

[gebomartin]

And this is a new gun purchased from a gun shop.

 

[SLT223]

Is this a NEW gun? If yes, someone at the factory had trouble fitting the side plate the frame. The frame is bent upward at the pan handle of the plate, bottom of the frame window. Additionally, there's peening at the plate and frame where you last photo illustrates. At $759, I'd be pissed....

 

[FlyFish]

And this is a new gun purchased from a gun shop.

Oh! It never occurred to me that it could be a new gun. In that case, definitely take it back and get one that has been fitted properly. If the gun shop won't make it right then contact S&W.

 

[murphydog]

Welcome, and sorry for your troubles. What I see appears to be a cosmetic defect in the sideplate fit. I presume the gun functions normally?

You can certainly try discussing sending it back to the factory for a warranty repair with customer service; they may tell you it is not a mechanical issue or covered. Regrettably, it pays to inspect a potential purchase for such issues before buying.

 

[gebomartin]

Is this a NEW gun? If yes, someone at the factory had trouble fitting the side plate the frame. The frame is bent upward at the pan handle of the plate, bottom of the frame window. Additionally, there's peening at the plate and frame where you last photo illustrates. At $759, I'd be pissed....

My gun shop will treat me right. I am not a gun guy. I'm a preacher by trade. Can you help me understand what you are saying so I can go in on Mon/Tuesday and speak knowledgably?

I know that's a big question I am asking you.