Smith and Wesson 357 Revolver Mis-fire

[twrangham]

Hey guys, I am new here but a web search took me here for assistance. I am wondering if anyone has any ideas for what might be causing my S&W 357 Model 19 I believe to be mis-firing. I have thoroughly cleaned the Revolver and tried different types of ammo.

Basically its random! Sometimes I can fire all 6, sometimes 5, and sometimes it will miss 2! I retry the round, and it usually doesnt fire the 2nd time either. Is there something simple to check? I have another shorter barrel 357 S&W, and have verified on it that the round(s) is good. Just a bit frustrating not knowing if the gun is gonna fire or not. This gun has not been extensively used, and I dont think its a technique thing either....

--Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[altitude_19]

Is it new or used? A previous owner might have done some work to reduce spring power, causing intermittent ignition. If you have 100% ignition on premium defensive ammo, or handloads with federal primers, but cheaper stuff doesn't go off, you have your answer.

 

[dbarale]

There is a screw at the bottom of the front strap (bottom of the grip frame, trigger side). Make sure it is all the way in and tight. It is most likely your problem.

Edit: the horizontal screw in this pic:

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I was about to mention that screw but "dbarale" did it much better than I would have. Pictures always help... It does sound like a loose screw to me too.

 

[altitude_19]

Leave it to me to forget the most obvious solution first. :'P Yeah, check that screw.