Necessary to fix end shake?

[FullEffect1911]

Hello,

I have a 629-2 that I purchased a while back. It has about .007" of end shake in the cylinder (.002 to .009 barrel cylinder gap on average). I found out how to fix it right using bearings and the appropriate reamers. However I have another question.

Is it necessary to fix this end shake? This is not a self defense piece, it has all timing checks pass and I only plan to fire .44 specials out of it. I have ruger's for my magnum duty. I did fire it before I discovered the end shake, and to my knowledge it doesn't spit.

So my question is should I spend the money on the tools to do the job right, or just enjoy the revolver as is? What are the negatives of not fixing the end shake?

 

[cottonmouth]

If the cylinder is binding on the barrel when you cycle it double action then it should be fixed.

J.B.

 

[Jeff F]

I'd send it back to S&W and let them fix it. I shot a 629 loose and sent it in three times and it never cost me a dime.

 

[dfariswheel]

The hazard with excess end shake is, it's only going to get worse.
The more you shoot it, the faster it's going to do so.

Once the cylinder develops end shake, the massive cylinder slamming back and forth will literally hammer the cylinder, yoke, and frame to death.
The more end shake there is, the more movement of the cylinder is possible, and the greater the hammering of the parts.

You can continue to shoot it if you want, but watch the end shake closely. It can get worse quickly.

 

[machinisttx]

+1 for what dfariswheel said.

 

[FullEffect1911]

that sounds like a lot of damage could ensue. All good reasons to fix the problem. Thanks.