Need Help S&W Hand Spring

[KansasPaul]

had some issues with my S&W night guard - removed the side cover, hammer, trigger, etc. In an act of stupidity I removed the hand from the trigger and allowed the small hand spring to fall from the trigger assembly. I do not know the spring orientation and can't figure out how this is supposed to go back together with the trigger/hand assembly. I sure could use some help on this.

Thank you!

Paul

 

[rcmodel]

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-smithing/89800-how-does-hand-spring-fit-442-642-a.html#post986506

rc

 

[KansasPaul]

RC - you,sir, are a rock star!

Thank you so much for the link. This helps a bunch!

Paul

 

[Jim K]

Those instructions are fine EXCEPT:

ALWAYS take the tension off the mainspring (hammer spring) BEFORE removing the side plate. The hammer stud is supported on one side by the frame and on the other by the sideplate. If the sideplate is removed with the full tension left on, the hammer stud is left supported on only one side and can break. It doesn't happen often, but when it does it is a PITA and results in a trip to the factory.

Jim

 

[rcmodel]

Good point.
But, probably too late for the OP.

If he didn't already know it, and do it, before he got misplaced springs on reassembly.

The thing is, there was probably no good reason to take the hand out of the trigger, or the Night-Guard apart in the first place.

Except for curiosity killed the cat.
Or the Night-Guard as is be.

rc

 

[KansasPaul]

I normally would never remove a side cover other than to swap out a spring. In this scenario this wasn't the case. I had the cylinder and trigger lock up yesterday and I still had 3 live rounds in the cylinder. I honestly thought about shipping the gun back to S&W but I didn't feel that it was prudent to send it as it was (in all actuality it would have been fine). The issue was the result of a squib, which had I taken a bit of time could have been resolved without getting into the gun. Anyway, my intent was not to remove the hand from the trigger but when holding the hand back and lifting out the trigger the two pieces separated (born out of my carelessness and frustration at the time). I've been into S&W and Ruger revolvers a few times - but not quite as deep as this one. It's all part of learning, right? (at least that's what I keep telling myself)

Paul

 

[KansasPaul]

...she's back together and functioning great. Thank you to all who offered input.

Paul

 

[rcmodel]

Well done!!

rc

 

[Old Fuff]

It's a radical solution, but you can replace the MIM trigger that has the spring nested, to an older one that has the spring pinned. It can't get lost unless you drive out the pin.

 

[Maj Dad]

Just FYI, I recall seeing advisories by gun makers in the past to not send loaded firearms to them, and that they were obligated to report any they received to the BATF. I have no references as to penalties/etc., but it wouldn't surprise me in the least. I'm sure someone out there has the straight skinny...

 

[Old Fuff]

I believe that all of the major gun companies have received loaded guns, and the people who unpack and log them in, are well trained and aware.

The BATF&E might, or might not be interested - but if the gun was shipped through the USPS somebody will have a serious problem.