Short barrel Ruger Old Army Question

[4V50 Gary]

How does one remove the loading lever assembly on the shorter barrel Ruger Old Army? On the bigger 7 1/2" gun I grew up with, the barrel was long enough to provide clearance. On the shorter 5 1/2" barrel version, the Base Pin doesn't clear that retainer(?) on the barrel. It appears that the retainer, which is screwed in, must be removed in order to remover the loading lever assembly. Mind you, I don't think it's a life or death situation, but if someone knows of an easier way, please share it.

 

[Smokin_Gun]

lever

If it won't allow to be unscrewed you may have to remove the latch catch stud(retainer) as you do with an Remington 5 1/2 bbl. that's my guess.

SG

 

[rogertc1]

I believe the catch is just glued in, no threads. Mine is a 5.5 " Pietta. It has been a while since I converted mine into a cartridge cylinder. I replaced mine with blue loctite.

ROG

pics, diagrams and parts in here

http://www.vtigunparts.com/

 

[whosyrdaddy]

Catch must be removed

The catch has to be removed. No way around it. Takes a small (eye glass) sized regular screw driver. After you break it free the first time removal is easy. Remember to check periodically during shooting to make sure it's still snug.

On the + side, you don't have to worry about dropping the base pin during cyl. changes.

 

[4V50 Gary]

Thanks Whosyrdaddy. I don't recall seeing that screw on my 7 1/2" ROA and had I not flipped the gun upside down, wouldn't have noticed it at all.