Yoke Fit / Gap - only cosmetic?

[AJR337]

The gap didn't look big in the online pics but I'm assuming that the yoke fit is only a cosmetic issue since the lockup is tight, timing is good, alignment is fine, and barrel / cylinder gap is .004?

Front looks fine...

And just found this on S&W's website...so I guess they would consider this acceptable...

 

[armorer951]

Assuming all the other factors and measurements you mention are within specifications, the gap appears "normal".

I'm not sure what the spec is for the gap between the upper part of the frame cutout on the bottom of the barrel lug and the top of the yoke....or if there is one.

"Contact" between the lug and the yoke at that juncture doesn't play any role in the integrity of the frame or firing mechanism of the gun concerning stress or alignment, as the yoke remains an independent structure, supported by the yoke stem and the load bearing area in front of the gas ring.

 

[alwslate]

It may not matter to the integrity of the gun but I can't recall ever seeing one that big before. Is it a newer S&W with a two piece barrel? Looks like a crush fit between a shroud and the frame.

 

[chief38]

Some gaps and seams are larger than others. While we all want perfect revolvers with perfect spec's, that's not the way it is in reality. Some revolver have been fit, polished or machined to tighter tolerances than others and S&W's spec tolerances have widened over the years. It's the luck of the draw and it is now up to the buyer to discern what is acceptable or not. It now seems as long as it goes bang for their 3 shot test, it gets shipped.

 

[Alk8944]

Yoke/frame gaps as pictured are purely a cosmetic issue. They have no impact on performance or function.

 

[Yankeetom]

625-2 same issue

I just picked up a like new 625-2 model 1988 and it has the same issue. Mine has heavy markings on the forward inner edge of the yoke and the leading edge of the barrel lug. It's tight enough that the cylinder is a bear to open when it gets warmed up. I'll be stoning both surfaces to get needed clearance.