QUICK QUESTION ON S&W AUTO

[KELORGO]

Does anyone know the best way to remove the grip panels from a 3rd generation S&W auto? I have an early 4013TSW and have never tried to remove the grips. I tried tonight and have finally given up. I figured it was time to seek advice rather than pry something and break it!

 

[Spackler]

Use a punch to drive out the pin at the bottom rear of the grip. Once the pin is removed, you can slide the grip down and out to remove. It's all once piece. Be careful, as the mainspring strut and plunger are seated into a little pocket on the inside of the grip panel.

Removing and re-installing the grip can be a little tricky the first couple of times, but when you get the hang of it, you can do it quickly and easily.

 

[KELORGO]

Spackler,

Thanks for the information. I carried this gun on-duty for about 7 years. I finally convinced my chief to switch to the Sig P229R, and purchased the S&W for a song when the department traded up. Now that I'm free to "alter" the TSW, I've begun to polish the gun and will soon be adding wood grips. Thanks again for your time and info!

 

[KELORGO]

I had been pushing and prying at the wrong part. Thanks again, Spackler. We PA boys have to stick together!

Wow, it's amazing how much crud can get under a gun grip in 7 years! Anyone wondering whether they should remove their grips once in a while to clean under them, stop wondering right now. Do it!

 

[Spackler]

You're right, a lot of crud can get in there, and I'm probably overdue to remove my grips for a thorough cleaning. The part I hate is putting them back on, and trying to keep the mainspring strut in the little pocket while I'm doing it.

Speaking of which, I put a Wolff reduced power mainspring in my 4013TSW a few years ago, and it really improved the DA trigger. The factory spring is about 20lbs, and I believe I put in a 17lb spring, which was at the time the factory weight for the DA-only pistols. You might give that a try to lighten the DA trigger. Just do a good amount of range shooting with it to make sure you don't get light primer strikes before you carry it.