Smith Model 439 FTE

[taxifolia]

Recently bought used M439 (made in '87 - has long extractor and ambi safety) - I cleaned it pre-shooting. Shot it first time with daughter and son-in-law. I shot 8 rounds, they each shot about 42 rounds - all ammo was WIN white box. We used an original S&W mag and a stainless aftermarket, unknown mfgr. Three times (son-in-law) had FTE - twice with stainless mag, once with S&W mag.

Each time, slide was still back, top round in mag partially forward (about 1/4 inch), fired round still in chamber, so new round could not load and slide could not close. I locked slide back, pushed top round back in mag (so mag could be removed), released slide, then hand racked and fired round ejected.

I wondered if maybe the extractor was not grabbing / holding the rim - that seems likely, since fired case still in chamber and slide had cycled enuf to partially strip top round. If so, ? is why - ammo ?, worn extractor ?, shooter ?.

Second issue (less important) - racking by hand with empty mag, slide does lock back (using above 2 mags plus other four). While shooting, twice with the stainless mag, slide did not lock back. That's more of a nuisance than safety issue.

Any advice / suggestions much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

[gc70]

I had the same type of FTE problem with a 5906 and the extractor spring needed to be replaced. Visually check the extractor to make sure the end is not broken or badly worn. If it is not broken or worn, thoroughly clean the extractor slot (mine had an amazing amount of gunk in the slot). If you still have FTEs, the spring may not be putting enough pressure on the extractor to make it work properly.

 

[taxifolia]

Thanks gc. I pushed on rear end of extractor with thumb - feels like pretty good spring pressure. I'll field strip to clean and check extractor for wear - it looks OK with slide open - I'll get better view with slide off. I'll spray it with Gunscrubber and work extractor in and out - hopefully to clean out any gunk.

I have the S&W parts list for all their guns (attached) - it says extractor replacement is factory only for mine and yours. Did you send your slide back for replacement ?
http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore/SmWesson2/upload/other/PistolPartsList_Retail.pdf

Thanks.

 

[gc70]

I sent my entire gun to LSG, which an authorized S&W warranty service center. The owner knew exactly what my problem was and finished describing the problem when I phone and started telling him about my FTEs. LSG's service was excellent

PS - I always replace magazine springs when I buy a used gun and inspect the followers to make sure they are not damaged.