Iver Johnson No Worky

[D.B. Cooper]

Someone gave me a 22 cal Iver Johnson revolver (the only way I would own an Iver Johnson) that looks similar to a No.3 Scholfield break top action. It locks up good and seems to work fine when empty. When loaded, however, it skips and/or locks up when loaded with 22LR.

The barrel is marked 22 cal. and doesn't specify 22LR, but the ammo fits flush in the charge holes. What are some common causes, and what are some possible, cheap/quick/easy repairs? (I have zero dollars and 10 minutes of my life invested in this, and I'm looking to keep it as close to that way as possible.) If this issue indicates a costly or lengthy repair, how does one dispose of such a firearm?

 

[Rubone]

It only locks when the hammer is locked back, otherwise it can free wheel.

 

[tightgroup tiger]

Can you put a picture of it on here so we can see if it is black powder or smokeless?

 

[MacAR]

It probably just needs a good, thorough cleaning of the lockwork. However, it could be a worn-out hand or bolt, or a worn out spring(s) that are causing the cylinder not to catch. Give it a good scrubbing first and see if that fixes it. I personally would love to invest the time into making the little gun work, but I understand if you do not. As far as disposing of it, I'd be happy to take it off your hands. PM me if you decide to go that route and we can discuss it further.

Mac

 

[22250Rem]

What MacAR said...... No personal experience myself with them. Although I've know others that have dealt with old Iver Johnson handguns and always heard that the internal parts that are subject to wear will get out of tolerance quicker than something like an old Colt or S&W. In other words, they wear out quicker because they were originally a lower priced gun. Not knocking them but that's the way it is. If replacement parts cannot be found I've heard of skilled craftsmen who have restored parts with welding & grinding or fabricating them and replacing springs by cutting down or reshaping other springs. Of course that can get expensive real quick on handguns that don't command big money. Although I still consider them interesting and a real piece of Americana because they were once very common

 

[MacAR]

they wear out quicker because they were originally a lower priced gun

That's the biggest issue. The parts were never hardened like those in a S&W or Colt. I've tackled 2 as a "shade tree" gunsmith. One was a 32 for a friend, and it was as simple as cleaning, lubing and re-assembling. The other was a 38 for my little brother, and it required some judicious tinkering to make it "right". I want to say we had to fabri-cobble a hand or hand spring up for it. Can't remember now. They are a challenge to work on beyond the basics, as there is a surprising amount of fitting on the internals.

Mac