Frame on BHP bent or partial collapse.

[saltydog452]

I have posted this on BHP forums, but maybe I can get some suggestions from a few of the 'smiths on THR.

I bought a FN BHP and had some difficulty removing the trigger pin. An Automatic Center Punch didn't do the job. Took it to a machine shop. Pin removed in about 5-10 mnts at a cost of $20.00

After re-assembly, original mag and others could not be inserted w/o considerable difficulty.

Back to machine shop. Seems the guy used a vice to hold the HP while he used hammer and punch to remove pin.

Concern is now whether frame is bent, (maybe a bent frame is repairable and can be bent back ??), or compressed to the point of inward movement that would prevent mag insertion.

Suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

salty

 

[rcmodel]

Yep!

You can't clamp a pistol frame in a vice without using an internal steel block to take the pressure off the thin grip section.

Can't say for sure if it can be straightened or not without seeing it.

Probably can with a series of steel wedges and blocks, but again without seeing it? I'm guessing.

rcmodel

 

[Sunray]

"...whether frame is bent..." Got a steel ruler or a small machinist's square? Using one or the other as a straight edge will tell you if the frame is bent.
"...Seems the guy used a vice to..." If he damaged it, he's responsible. However, it'd likely take expensive legal action and you'd have to prove he did it.

 

[Jim K]

Unbending that frame should be no problem and there should be no permanent damage. I used a wood wedge to straighten out frames like that, and never had any problems afterwards. In your case, it would be something of a tossup. The smith who messed it up should fix it up. On the other hand, he messed it up so.....

Jim

 

[saltydog452]

Attempted e-mail msg to Mr. Keenan. Returned due to spam filter and there is no provision for a PM.

Mr. Keenan, if you will, I'd appreciate hearing from you.

Thank you,

salty

 

[4v50 Gary]

Like Jim, I've also used a wooden wedge. Frames, like barrels, must be supported when clamped. That said, don't expect a machine shop to be able to correct it. A good machinist is not a trained gunsmith.