Cylinder Release question

[fiVe]

I have a S & W Model 29. I bought this gun used, but it is perfect inside & out, except for 1 small item--the cylinder release is very hard to push forward. It takes considerable pressure to move it, at which time the cylinder opens with no problem. There is also no problem with closing the cylinder. Everything else works just fine (the trigger is smooth as silk).

This is my first Smith&Wesson. Is this normal for the cylinder release? If not, what can be done to make the release slide easier?

I know there are many experts here who can help me (I don't want to damage this fine revolver). Thanks for your help.

Regards,

fiVe

 

[Clemson]

It should not be too hard to push the cylinder release forward. There may be a burr or a bent component causing the problem. Your best bet is to take it to a good gunsmith or send it to S&W for service.

Clemson

 

[Standing Wolf]

Is this normal for the cylinder release? If not, what can be done to make the release slide easier?

Nope, it's not the least bit normal. I'd guess the odds are about 99:1 there's dirt or coagulated old oil in the works. A thorough cleaning inside and out should do the trick. If it doesn't, the first culprit to be suspicious of would be the wee bitty spring in the bolt, followed by bent parts and/or parts with burrs.

I recommend the Kuhnhausen book.

 

[JoeHatley]

Double check your ejector rod is tight, left hand threads.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[Jim K]

Before going to a gunsmith or trying to take the pistol down yourself, try this:

Remove the grips. Then get a spray cleaner/solvent (not WD-40) made for guns. (I like G96 Gun Treatment, but it is sometimes hard to get).

Cock the hammer, hold the gun with its left side down and spray the cleaner down in front of the hammer. Use lots of cleaner; it is cheaper than a trip to the gunsmith. Work the cylinder release while spraying.

Let the gun drain, then if the problem is solved, put a half dozen drops of good gun oil down in the same place, and also a few drops in front of the trigger. Wipe down the outside and replace the grips.

If this does not work, come back at us and maybe we can help further.

Jim

 

[fiVe]

Thanks, Jim, I'll try that.

(Thanks, everyone, for your input.)

R/fiVe

 

[g56]

Hopefully someone hasn't sprung the crane by flicking the cylinder closed, that's a movie gimmick, don't do it!