S.&W. .38 CTGE Cylinder and Cart. Release Broken?

[Tallyman541]

Recently found an old S.W. .38 CTGE while helping a friend clean, needless to say the owner has passed away, and now we are left with the pistol. Upon inspection the side of the barrel read "38 S.&W. CTGE" The top of the barrel says "Harrington & Richardson Arms Co. Worcester. Mass. U.S.A." There is "519" on the left side of the gun, right below the cylinder and a scratched in "#" on the other side.

There is a small release lever on the top, with brought the barrel forward and the cylinder with it. There is the Cartridge release, which moved out, and then it got stuck. I can't figure out what is wrong with it, I've tried everything besides brute strength, which I know is never a good idea.

Any help would be fantastic!

 

[Jim K]

The extractor should move out to push out the fired cases when the revolver is opened. Then as the gun is opened further, the extractor will snap back into place in the rear of the cylinder so fresh rounds can be loaded. If the extractor does not return that way, it might be rusted or dirty, or the spring broken. Try opening the gun as far as possible, then tap the extractor with something soft, like a piece of wood or plastic. If it doesn't go back in, don't force it, but check back.

Jim

 

[Tallyman541]

Thanks! That popped it back.

 

[DPris]

And for clarification if you ask anybody about the gun in future: You have a Harrington & Richardson breaktop revolver chambered for the .38 Smith & Wesson caliber (CTG or CTGE is an abbreviation for cartridge).
"S.W. .38 CTGE" is neither a brand nor a model designator.

The "cartridge release" is the extractor star.
Denis