Need help with Ruger Security 6 (w/Pictures)

[metzgeri]

Patient: Ruger Security 6 in .357. Early 150XXX serial number prefix. Sat in buddies closet for a good many years because he couldn't fire it.

Symptom: The trigger on this Ruger could only be pulled through to hammer release about 1 out of 10 times. You had to hold it in your hand and literally throw the revolver forward then pull the trigger (or you could hold it pointing down and shake it). Otherwise, the trigger (and hammer during single action) would freeze about 90% of the time when trying to fire.

Diagnosis: (here's where a Sec.6 expert/gunsmith can chime in) It looks like the pawl plunger is stuck in the trigger. From Numrich diagrams, I see that the pawl plunger should have a spring behind it. To me, that says the pawl plunger should free float in the trigger and put pressure on the pawl. Since the plunger is stuck and not keeping the pawl pushed forward, the pawl is able to fall back and get stuck up in the firing mechanism (??), thus the freezing trigger.

Am I correct here? Should the pawl plunger move in and out of that hole and put pressure on the pawl?

Any help appreciated,
metzgeri

In the parts diagram: Trigger is #55; Pawl is #42; Pawl Plunger is #43; Pawl Plunger spring is #44

 

[jaybar]

You are correct!!

Am I correct here? Should the pawl plunger move in and out of that hole and put pressure on the pawl?

Its odd that the plunger is frozen in the down position. Can you tell whetehr its rusted or possibly someone assembled it without putting the spring in first?? Lacking the designed spring pressure, the pawl could just flop around and lock up the gun as you described.

 

[metzgeri]

jaybar,
Thanks for affirming that.

I thought it was weird that the plunger is stuck down too. My buddy says he's never messed with the gun. I did find some corrosion/rust on the trigger (on the stainless part). But, other than that, the area around the plunger looked fine. I've tried punching the plunger in further and also drilling it out. Neither of which has budged the plunger. It's stuck good!

Oh well, I'm going to order a new trigger/plunger/spring. About $24 total and worth it for such a good looking revolver. Honestly, I've never owned nor shot a revolver!!! So, once I get this thing back together, I'll have to try it out before I give it back!!

Thanks,
metzgeri

 

[Jim K]

I think I would have tried a good soaking in Kroil or a penetrant like G96 Gun Treatment before trying to drill, but the new parts should correct the problem. The trouble with small plungers like that is that they do tend to stick due to dried oil or grease, combined with dirt. Usually, you can work them free with soaking and needle-nose pliers, but not always.

Jim

 

[4v50 Gary]

Plunger could be stuck. Disassemble it and check to ensure that the plunger moves freely. Check the spring for kinks. Replacement parts should be cheap enough. Also, inspect the hole for burrs. You may have to use a rat tail file (micro file) to smoothen the channel.