S&W K-22 Firing Problem

[gmkmd]

Hi. Anybody know much about Smith's? I just bought a Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece, early post-war vintage. This is my first K-frame revolver, so I don't know much about their idiosyncrasies.
Anyway, it's frequently misfiring; looks like the firing pin isn't striking the rim of the case hard enough, just barely marking it. Is the firing pin worn down, or is it a spring problem? Anybody know where I could get a new firing pin?

 

[JMusic]

First look for a screw head at the inside bottom grip frame and make sure that is tight. Many people lossen this screw hoping for a lighter double action. Welcome to THR

Jim

 

[JoeHatley]

+1 Make sure the strain screw is tight.

If it is, and the firing pin isn't damaged, replace the mainspring and/or strain screw.

If the problem persists, check your headspace. Should be 0.006"

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[gmkmd]

Thanks for the help guys. The screw was a bit loose, but even with it tightened all the way, it's still misfiring about 70% of the time.
I do notice that on the face of the cylinder there are firing pin marks just next to some of the chambers. It is not firing out of battery now, but I wonder if it was at one time, and if this could have peened and shortened the firing pin.

 

[gmkmd]

I spoke to another guy and he said that the tip of the firing pin should be rounded, but mine is dead flat. Is that evidence that it was either worn down or messed with?

 

[JoeHatley]

Yes, the firing pin should have a rounded end. The flat pin tip and marks on the cylinder would indicate someone has been dry firing the gun. Not good.

Probably best to have a local smith order and install a new firing pin, and inspect for a weak mainspring and shortened strain screw.

All of the replacement parts can be had by calling S&W or going to www.brownells.com or www.e-gunparts.com , if you like to do things yourself.

Good Luck...

Joe

 

[JMusic]

I agree with Joe but it depends on what you mean by rounded. Typical rimfire firing pins leave a rectangular indentation. Centerfire appear to be rounded. If you have markings on the cylinders someone has been dryfiring the hell out it. This in itself can cause misfire depending on condition. You made a statement that causes me concern. It no longer fires out of battery. I'm not sure what you mean by that but that is a dangerous condition and is not do to any of the above described conditions. Take it to a Smitty and have it looked at. These pistols only go up in value, you won't be sorry.

Jim