Need help, S & W single action .38

[brazosdave]

Hey fellas, I picked up this old S & W .38 single action on GB. The extractor is not functioning correctly, and this cam doesn't look like the drawings i've seen. Can anyone school me on how i might fix this? Here is a pic of the gun broken down, and another one of the extractor cam. Appreciate the help all!

 

[velocette]

Looks like an S&W first model AKA "Baby Russian"
1876 ~ 1877. Chambered in .38 S&W

 

[brazosdave]

that is what it is.

 

[Jim Watson]

No, it is a Second Model, the First or "Baby Russian" has a much longer extractor housing. But I don't know how to fix either.

 

[gyvel]

^^^^^ What Jim Watson said. First model had a small sliding button to allow you to open the revolver without actuating the extractor.

 

[James K]

The first model had a rack and pinion extractor like the Russian, which is where it got the name "Baby Russian." The second model has the type of cam shown, but the one pictured is missing a piece and has the wrong spring. There is a curved part that fits in the front, and has its own pivot built in with a small spring behind it.

I hope the picture comes through OK, but here is what it looks like. Compare it with the one shown by the OP.

So, given that the missing part is probably unobtainable, could the OP make the part work? I think so, but it will take some work on that spring, plus the fix will probably mean that the extractor won't snap back into the cylinder as it should, but it might extract OK.

Jim

 

[Tidewater_Kid]

Look at part #13 on this page.

http://www.gunpartscorp.com/Manufac...olvers-42026/38DoubleActionRevolver-38376.htm

Would that work?

TK

 

[brazosdave]

Thanks a lot for the pic and the heads up about Nimrich! I'm not sure it will work, but now at least I have a place i can call and find out. I appreciate everyones assistance!
BD

 

[James K]

The part Tidewater Kid mentions is a later type used on the double action models. I don't know if it will work or not, but it won't hurt to ask.

Jim

 

[James K]

The two parts will interchange, so Part # 13 will fit and work in the single action.

Jim

 

[velocette]

Learn sumpthin every day!

Gyvel posted about the S&W "Baby Russian" that it had a
sliding button to disconnect the ejection rack so you could
open the revolver without shucking the empties / live rounds.
I have a nickel plated Baby Russian & never knew that. I took
mine & examined it & by gosh there sure is the button and it
works too!

Roger

 

[James K]

Actually, the whole top of the second model Single Action will interchange with the top of the DA. But cylinders won't interchange, though.

Jim