revolver blow back?

[Hulkstr8]

Hey guys,

Took the old Model 19 out to shoot with some buddies today. I noticed quite a bit of blowback (idk if that's the right word), i.e. sting from gases. I was using full power 357 mag ammo; some new Freedom Munitions 158 FN I have laying around.

I am still pretty new to revolvers. Is this normal? Thanks.

[Clint]

It's normal for some gas to escape the "gap" between the cylinder and barrel.

[Arik]

Normal

Occasionally you might find older revolvers with what looks like a cutout on the underside of the top strap, above the front of the cylinder. That's called flame cutting. Happens when hot gases slowly cut into the metal. On more modern revolvers you'll find sometimes a piece of metal has been inserted between the forcing cone and the top strap to prevent the flame cutting

[jh9]

Hey guys,

i.e. sting from gases. I was using full power 357 mag ammo;

If it's stinging your face it isn't just gas. It's called spitting.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-rev...ck-timing.html

Probably FTCU. Check the timing and go from there.

[Hulkstr8]

If it's stinging your face it isn't just gas. It's called spitting.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-rev...ck-timing.html

Probably FTCU. Check the timing and go from there.

thanks. Spitting sound right. I thought I was getting hit with lead.

[Hulkstr8]

Hey guys -

So I checked the timing and it seems to be off for some of the cylinders. Now what?

[gaijin]

You address the problematic "hand" or "bolt"- OR- send it to an S&W mechanic, which are a dying breed.

[NoBodyImportant]

I think most revolvers have gas coming out the cylinder

[Hulkstr8]

You address the problematic "hand" or "bolt"- OR- send it to an S&W mechanic, which are a dying breed.

yeah. I am getting some cylinder notch peening too. I wish I knew more about revolvers, for repair and for buying used guns. hard to find a revolver gunsmith anymore.

[gaijin]

I have peened S&W hands that were marginally short rather than replacing them. This can make a difference in sluggish lockup FWIW.

Frank Glenn is a known quantity for revolver repairs. They are a dying breed tho.
http://www.glenncustom.com/

A word to the wise:
Extremely fast double action firing is one of the most detrimental things you can do to a revolver. The cylinder, repeatedly slamming to a stop at lock up can mess up bolt, hands, cylinder notch.