Get the lead out...

[IrvJr]

Hello folks,

I have a S&W 624 (L frame, 3" barrel, stainless, 5 shot .44 special) that I bought used a year or two ago. It's a pleasure to shoot with this gun. Since I've owned the gun, I only shoot lead bullets at factory loads.

I think the timing of this revolver may be off slightly, because I've noticed some lead build up on the frame today when I was cleaning it. The barrel and forcing cone look clear (no lead) but on the frame, near the barrel, there's a little "bump"of lead build up.

Also, on the rear inside of the frame, where the top strap meets the the back of the frame (above the hole for the firing pin in the corner of the top strap and the back of the frame) it looks like some leads building up there too (I don't know why).

I normally don't clean the gun very thoroughly, I simply use a bore-snake with some CLP-type of fluid on the cylinder chambers and bore. However, at some point I guess I should remove the lead before it affects the operation of the gun.

I have some questions for the revolver experts:

1. What are some good methods for removing the lead buildup from the frame (stainless gun)? I seem to recall reading that there are some home-brewed solvents made from vinegar or something like that, which will take off the lead. Should I use a solvent or somekind of brush?

2. Why would lead build up on the inside rear part of the frame (as described above)?

3. Would a competent gunsmith be able to put my revolver in time so lead would not build up on the frame?

4. Would S&W be able to re-time the gun and also clean it & remove the lead?

Thanks!

IrvJr

 

[jjmorgan64]

The gun doesn't sound off time, this lead build up is completely normal.

It is typically lead that is vaporized by the powder blowing through the BC gap and sticking to the top strap.

An old toothbrush and any lead solvent should work wonders, larger groups can also be scraped off with something that won't scratch the metal.

 

[jjmorgan64]

FWIW were the timing off the gun would shoot lead chunks out of the BC gap, this would be something a smith would have to repair.

 

[JoeHatley]

Irv,

Your gun sounds fine. Lead build up in the areas you mention is normal. The build up at the rear is caused by "blow by".

Joe

 

[IrvJr]

Thanks...

Thanks for your responses. I'll try some of the commercial solvents that I saw in the Brownells catalog and a toothbrush.

I'm happy to hear that this lead build is normal. It's an awesome gun to shoot. It's definitely one of (if not my most) favorite.

IrvJr