[bloodline]

I have a very well used 686. The cylinder is a bit sloppy in the frame. The gap is large and the cylinder moves from side to side. Can i fix it?

[john1911]

Return it to S&W, they'll fix it.

[bloodline]

For how much?

[Oro]

They give gunsmithing figures on their website. They also offer an attractive ship & Return figure that saves you over two-way transfers through your local FFL.

If you have a good local 'smith, he can tend to it in about two hours with minimum parts unless something bad is bent or worn. If you state where you are, maybe we can recommend one. Guns since, oh, about 1990 or a year or so earlier are covered under a lifetime warranty if you are the original buyer.

686's are generally very well and tightly built guns - on CNC equipment to tight standards, and reasonably well finished. If it's that loose, it's seen a lot of rounds (on average). Getting it to a good gunsmith would be wise.

[bloodline]

south carolina. Thanks. It has seen a lot of rounds. I don't think anything is out of wack, it's just loose fitting. Aren't there bearings in the cylinder for this?

[madcratebuilder]

You should be able to shim for end play and cylinder gap. To tighten the cylinder you probably need to fit a new bolt. With the new manufacturing process the last bolt I replaced was a drop in, no fitting was required at all.

[bloodline]

thank you sir! Do i just order a handful of shims? They can't be very expensive right?

[PattonTime]

I would send it to Smith if new enough they will make it like new for free
I believe they will even send you a prepaid shipping label
I would call, how can you beat free?
My opinion only of course, but I just have never liked self installed shims as well as free parts from S&W

[hoptob]

It's worth calling S&W support - they may do it for free. If bc gap is too large, barrel would need to be turned. Not something you want to do yourself.

Mike