What is Revolver "Cylinder End Shake" and Can You Fix It?..(Is It Bad?)

Published on June 29, 2024
Duration: 6:26

This video explains cylinder end shake in revolvers, differentiating it from side-to-side cylinder play. Cylinder end shake is the forward and backward movement of the cylinder, which can lead to power loss and damage to the forcing cone and other firearm components. Minor end shake can often be fixed using readily available shim kits, a process detailed in the guide.

Quick Summary

Cylinder end shake in revolvers is the forward and backward movement of the cylinder when closed, distinct from side-to-side play. Excessive shake creates a gap, reducing power and potentially damaging the forcing cone and other parts. Minor end shake can be fixed with shim kits, a relatively simple gunsmithing task.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to Cylinder End Shake
  2. 00:41What Cylinder End Shake Is NOT
  3. 01:02What Cylinder End Shake IS
  4. 01:24Why Cylinder End Shake Is Bad
  5. 01:52Fixing Cylinder End Shake
  6. 02:08Catastrophic DIY Mistakes
  7. 02:50Using Cylinder Shim Kits
  8. 03:35Ease of Shim Kit Installation
  9. 03:38Ideal Cylinder Gap
  10. 04:06Testing for End Shake
  11. 04:14When to Seek Professional Help
  12. 04:43Recap: Forward/Back vs. Side-to-Side

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cylinder end shake in a revolver?

Cylinder end shake in a revolver refers to the forward and backward movement of the cylinder when it is closed. It's not the side-to-side play, which indicates a more serious problem. This movement can create a gap between the cylinder face and the forcing cone.

Why is cylinder end shake considered a problem for revolvers?

Excessive cylinder end shake is problematic because it creates a gap, leading to power loss from muzzle blast and potential damage to the forcing cone, top strap, and crane due to escaping hot gases and energy.

Can cylinder end shake be fixed on a revolver?

Yes, minor cylinder end shake can typically be fixed using specialized shim kits, which are readily available. These kits add material to the cylinder assembly to reduce the forward and backward play.

How do you fix minor cylinder end shake?

To fix minor cylinder end shake, you'll need a cylinder shim kit. The process involves removing the cylinder, installing the shim(s) onto the cylinder assembly, and then reassembling the cylinder into the firearm.

What are the signs of severe cylinder end shake?

Severe cylinder end shake might manifest as a very large gap between the cylinder face and the forcing cone, or it could be caused by improper modifications like flattening the cylinder bevel or filing the forcing cone, which often requires major repairs or part replacement.

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