checking wear in cylinder...

[Running Gunfight]

I did a search and read in a post that:

"You also want to check each cylinder bore, in this case with the light coming in from the FRONT of each hole, you looking in from the back where the primers would be. You're looking for wear at the "restrictions" at the front of each cylinder bore. That's the "forcing cone" area and it can wear rapidly with some Magnum loads. (Special thanks to Salvo below for this bit!)"

What kind of wear I am looking for? I am looking specifically at a 66 S&W and want to know how many magnums have gone through it. The cylinder is tight and the barrell shows no signs of wear. What does this erosion look like? All I see is a dark ring which appears to be the cone structure. No pitting, etc.

Thanks guys. This site is very helpful for all things revolver.

 

[Tom2]

Cylinder insp.

BTW you might want to read the post above by vertigo 7, "wont go in, wont come out". Referring to buildup in cyl. from firing .38's in .357. That is usually a problem with shooting lead. I guess the only thing I look for in a cylinder is rust pits, unless it is a stainless gun. SHould look smooth and shiny in both the cylinder and cylinder throat, after a good cleaning. If you shoot lead it will tend to build up in the throat, and appear dull in there. I had only heard to look for flame cutting damage above the cylider/barrel gap on the frame inside. Or check for damage or cracks at the rear of the barrel. As long as the magnum rounds chamber Ok, I don't see any problem with the cylinder. Unless it has developed a bulge in one chamber or something!

 

[Tom2]

Ps

The throat of the cylinder is an abrupt step down in diameter. The throat of the barrel is tapered, to align the entering bullet from the cylinder. THe condition of the tapered part can affect accuracy.