aaaarrrrrggggghhhhhh!

[springmom]

This past weekend, we went out to the ranch, with our new toys (a clay thrower and a new-to-us 28ga Athena SxS) The thrower's going to work out well, although I can't say the same for my aim... Ah well, BA/UU/R, right?

However, the fifth time I loaded the Athena, the right trigger wouldn't pull. The left side is fine but nothing would get the right trigger to cock. Does anybody know (1) whether this is something I can fix myself and (2) is that likely the cocking spring? Weatherby's rather useless website had very little info on the internals of the shotgun, and their closest "authorized" service center is up in Hurst, TX, which is north of Dallas/Ft. Worth.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Springmom

 

[Virginian]

How 'new' is it? Assuming it is not under warranty, check with a local gunsmith and see if he feels qualified to work on it and guarantee his work. A lot of guys won't work on SxSs, but the ones who do should be able to fix it up without too much difficulty. I love SxSs, but I would not advise working on one yourself unless you have a lot of experience, and the right tools. Way to easy to do expensive damage.

 

[springmom]

It is in great shape (visually) although I haven't checked with Weatherby for its exact date of manufacture. Thanks for the advice..I'm thinking this is not one I want to try on my own, unless it's a simple "take out this screw and it all comes apart easily" kind of thing. (Like my semiauto )

Springmom

 

[Fred Fuller]

Argh indeed. Sorry to hear you're having problems, Springmom, as long as you anticipated getting that shotgun.

I know nothing about the gun and it isn't listed in any of my exploded-drawing books. Articles here and there on the webz describe it as a boxlock action with sideplates. That would indicate to me it isn't a DIY prospect.

All I can say is that it's possible the barrels are not being depressed fully- try pushing down gently on the barrels at a point out in front of the forearm while holding the stock at the wrist. You can hold the gun over a knee if necessary to do this, but remember- gently! (and of course, watch the muzzles if you do it that way). If the barrels go all the way down and the right hammer still won't cock, IMHO it's time for a pro.

http://www.outdoorlife.com/outdoor/gear/article/0,19912,250339,00.html

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0BQY/is_10_51/ai_n14936902

hth,

lpl/nc

 

[springmom]

Nope. Didn't do a thing. The extractor of course stays flush with the barrel, although even a fingernail can slide it out into its correct position. Sounds like something that is supposed to be hooked up in there, isn't.

Off to Carter's to see if they can get their gunsmith to fix it. I REALLY don't want to have to ship it.

Springmom

 

[rcmodel]

Did you take it apart & put it back together?

The ejector springs & cocking arms are under the forearm and you might be able to see something if you just take the barrels off the receiver.

rcmodel

 

[Hawk]

Perhaps providence is simply telling you it's time for a road trip.

Look what I found directly east and around 20 miles from the shop in Hurst:
http://www.berettagallery.com/index.aspx?m=53&did=356

Drop the thing off then go check out the Gallery and possibly Ray's.

There's a pretty nice burger joint near the Gallery IIRC.

 

[springmom]

No. That was my point...I wasn't going to take it apart not knowing how it fits together, not having an exploded diagram, and not knowing what I was getting into.

I took it back to Carter's Country this morning. They offered me a different gun if I wished (not a new Athena...they don't carry them new AFAIK) and the owner said they will take care of it. That's what I call good service (and a commercial for giving your business to your local gun shops.)

Springmom