[jibjab]

It seems a bit quiet on the Smith forum and thought I might transfer my question to here :) thanks
http://smith-wessonforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/580103904/m/2951053461?r=8811094461#8811094461

[Old Fuff]

Up until about 1947 S&W revolvers had what were called "long actions." Because of the design the hammer rotated further back, and the double-action was extended also. These revolvers were (justifiably) ruputed to have the best possible double-action trigger pull, particularly after some tuning.

But bullseye target shooters - who thumb-cocked their guns - didn't particularly like the long action. So S&W discontinued the design and replaced it with a new "short-action," where the hammer didn't rotate back as far, and of course the double-action was shortened also. Thus reliable ignition required a slightly heavier main spring.

You can buy a new double-action sear (the little lever that fits in the front of the hammer) but these have to be individually hand fitted by an experienced gunsmith, and may involve retiming the whole action. I suspect however that the slightly increased hammer throw won't make any practical difference so far as the weight, or potential weight, of the trigger pull.

If you are determined to do your own work buy a copy of Jerry Kuhnhausen's book" The S&W Revolver - A shop Manual which is availabe from Brownells (www.brownells.com). They also carry a full line of Smith & Wesson parts.