[Blowingsky]

I've had a K38 for the past 25 years and my Dad had it before that (bought new) since '51. I am not sure he ever stripped it completely down (he's gone now). I know I haven't. I'm thinking, since I'm going to start shooting it at the range again (I haven't put 100 rounds through it since I've had it), that I should completely strip it down and clean it. Any advice as to where to go to do this. Online links? Special tools? Leave it to a gunsmith?

Thanks.

[rcmodel]

See the sticky right above your post.
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=397027

1. DO GET a set of hollow-ground gunsmith screwdrivers.
2. DO NOT pry the side-plate off with a screw-driver.
3. DO NOT take the cylinder ejector rod assemble apart. It is an assembly and should not be dissembled as long as it works. You can clean it with spray solvent and blow it out with an air hose and re-oil.

rc

[9mmepiphany]

before you take it apart...is it not operating smoothly?

there has been much more damage done to guns through cleaning than you might think...it is not like it is a pistol that was designed to be opened all the time

[steveno]

I would agree that it is firing ok now there isn't any reason to take the sideplate off.

[Oro]

there has been much more damage done to guns through cleaning than you might think...it is not like it is a pistol that was designed to be opened all the time

+1. If it has been properly stored and operating well, it's best to leave it alone. It's not like a 1911 in there...

If you feel the need to do it, use Sylvan_Forge's excellent thread (the link rcmodel gave), and follow that advice.

[Blowingsky]

Thanks. The revolver has an excellent-feeling action, so I'll leave it alone. Hmm, but now to tackle my 90 year old 1911...

[Oro]

Hmm, but now to tackle my 90 year old 1911...

Oh, now that's much easier! You can find easy online disassembly instructions with a simple google, and it's no where near as complicated as an S&W revolver, even to do a full detail strip.

If yours is a full 90 years old, then it's a pre-"a1" style - a true "1911" design. Which in my book, is very desirable whether a military or commercial model. If you need help, post some pictures (if you can) in the auto forum and plenty of people will answer. Cleaning up and properly lubing and testing an older 1911 is not terribly hard. Feel free to pm me for links to other good sources of info.