S&W 1917 Cylinder Swap and time.....Anvil 0110

Published on February 18, 2022
Duration: 41:09

This video details a complex gunsmithing procedure to swap the cylinder on a Smith & Wesson 1917 revolver. The modification allows the use of .45 ACP cartridges without moon clips by replacing the original straight-drilled cylinder with one featuring stepped chambers. The process involves extensive disassembly, careful fitting, and precise timing adjustments to ensure proper function.

Quick Summary

A Smith & Wesson 1917 revolver can fire .45 ACP cartridges without moon clips by replacing its original straight-drilled cylinder with one featuring stepped chambers. These chambers create a headspace for the .45 ACP case mouth, eliminating the need for moon clips.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project Intro: S&W 1917 Cylinder Swap
  2. 00:56Understanding .45 ACP Headspacing & Moon Clips
  3. 02:21S&W Frame Disassembly Techniques
  4. 05:14Internal Mechanics: Strain Screw Importance
  5. 06:50Trigger, Hammer & Rebound Spring Removal
  6. 08:38Bolt & Plunger Assembly Teardown
  7. 12:21Cylinder Assembly Breakdown & Threads
  8. 14:40Fitting the New S&W Cylinder
  9. 17:50Correcting Timing Issues on S&W 1917
  10. 19:00Live Fire Testing: .45 ACP Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a Smith & Wesson 1917 revolver fire .45 ACP without moon clips?

A S&W 1917 can fire .45 ACP without moon clips by swapping the original straight-drilled cylinder for one with stepped chambers. These stepped chambers provide a physical stop for the .45 ACP case mouth, allowing it to headspace correctly within the cylinder.

What is the correct way to remove a S&W side plate?

The correct method for removing a S&W side plate is to tap the frame gently. This uses vibration and mass to release the plate without prying, which can damage the edges and finish of the firearm.

Why is the strain screw important in S&W revolvers?

The strain screw is crucial as it holds the mainspring. It should always be fully tightened. Loosening it to lighten the trigger pull is a common error that can cause the mainspring to interfere with the rebound slide, leading to operational issues.

What precision work is needed when fitting a new cylinder to a S&W 1917?

Fitting a new cylinder may require precision stoning. This is done to adjust dimensions like cylinder length or extractor star smoothness, ensuring proper clearance and rotation. Minor timing issues caused by bolt window size differences can also be corrected with careful stoning.

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