[Hawaiian]

I have an old S&W J frame model 31 I think. It was put away many years ago and has some rust pitting. I am getting it bead blasted and refinished. Since I would like to carry it, I was thinking of having the smith bob the hammer some to reduce the chance of the hammer catching on clothing. I remember reading somewhere that this might reduce the weight of the hammer and it would not fire properly. Is this correct?

[JoeHatley]

Removing the hammer spur does reduce the amount of mass (weight) the hammer has to hit the primer with. However, with a stock mainspring, there is generally plenty of extra force available.

Folks have had good luck with this popular conversion for a very long time.

Joe

[Hawaiian]

Thanks Joe. Another question if I may. The gunsmith wants $200. to bead blast and refinish the gun. I have not yet asked about the price to remove the spur. Then, I would also want to change the grips. It is looking like I would be spending too much to redo this one? Should I forget about it and spend $350. on a SP101 357 3"?

[MikeJ]

Hello,
I would strongly recommend that you consider the S&W 640 .357 Centennial. This model has a concealed hammer for a snag free draw, is typically very accurate and only weighs 23 oz. unloaded. I have one and absolutely love it. Mike

[stans]

I second the vote for a 640 chambered in 357. I have one and it carries very well with Uncle Mike's rubber boot grips.