Smith & Wesson Revolver Quality Control

[pdude]

It could be that I'm nittpicking, but I went revolver shopping this week and was looking at some (new, not use) S&W revolvers. I really would like to pick up a 686 or 627 to add to my collection.

I saw several S&W that looked in bad shape including the forcing cone area with a gap to the frame and scratched forcing cone. Now maybe it doesn't make a difference, but the Rugers looked pretty pristine. So I googled it and found out that many have noticed this cosmetic, but not many had complained about functionality (well at least I haven't found it yet).

So has anyone else seen the same thing? Or maybe I've just been running into some bad apples. Could be that that work well in whatever condition they are in.

[checkenbach]

My 686 SSR had a few issues, but S&W took care of it, gratis. Couldn't ask for better service. As for cosmetics, my guns are tools, tools get used and marked up.

[FLAWLS1]

I never understood why some people referred to guns as tools. I never use my guns to screw something in or hammer anything. LOL! I'm very picky and I like my guns pristine. I know I've always wanted a S&W 686 so I'll be looking for the quality control issues that pdude mentioned.

[Freq18Hz]

Please use the sticky'd revolver check out procedure when inspecting a gun. If it doesn't meet those minimum requirements, the fit and finish is lacking.

-Freq

[jsipe007]

for me personally, it all depends on the gun I purchase. If I am buying a used gun, I know to expect a few cosmetic issues. When buying a brand new gun; however, I do expect it to be in very good shape. When its not, it screams Quality Control issue at me. Theres a sort of sense of pride. I bought my Colt 1911 used, it was my first handgun I have ever owned, and i love that gun. I can tell you how each and every scratch got on that gun (minus the ones from the PO lol). If I were to go buy a brand new colt 1911, I would want it to be almost flawless.

I think in CA, more than anything, people are disappointed when a new gun has a defect. The 10 day waiting period just makes it worse. For example, my dad and I bought a Mossberg Silver Reserve O/U when I was still in CA. We both were so excited to get it, waited the 10 days (and where I lived in CA, we didnt have any local gun dealers so it was a 2 hr drive to pick up and order the gun) and upon receiving the shotgun, we found a huge blemish on the underside of the lower barrel. I mean it looks like someone took a belt sander to the bottom of the barrel. More than anything, we were disappointed. After waiting 10 days, you get your hopes up and when the gun doesnt meet your expectations, it can sometimes be difficult. Plus, if we wanted a pristine shotgun, we would have to wait another 10 days. (Also we had no choice on this matter because we were sold a brand new shotgun, not the display model we inspected).

That shotgun; however, shoots amazing. As soon as we got to the range, we both instantly knew we made the right decision (keeping the shotgun, not waiting another 10 days).

To get back on topic, OP, my dad just bought a new 627 and that is a beautiful gun. Fit and finish are wonderful. It shoots great and has a great trigger. I suggest shopping till you find the one you like. Beautiful fit and function guns are out there, you just have to find them

[t0kie]

I've bought 3 S&W, 1 is new & 2 are used. All of them looks great & only minor fine scratches on the frame which I can live with.

[checkenbach]

As for calling a gun a "tool", it's used for sending rounds down range. I compete with my guns, so they will get holster wear, and the occasional mark from a barrier or barrel.
I try to keep my stuff as nice as possible, and DO take care of them, but I have no safe queens.

[pdude]

That's a good idea to re-read the sticky. Most of the Smiths that looked bad was for the most part on the inside that I most cared about. Some had tarnishing on the outside (saw one with the trigger, another on part of the frame) which I'm sure could be polished up which is more for cosmetics. The inside is where I was worried especially near the forcing cone (chipping and gaps) as well as checking the cylinder star.

I'm now considering maybe just sticking and getting another Ruger. But I'll look around and see if I can find another S&W.

[noyo55]

My advice , which is free so you know what value it has, is not to settle for less than you want. Exercise some patience and don't settle for second best. Most of my stuff is older, some C&R and made when quality was job one. I just bought a S&W Model17, that when I cleaned it, and put the rennaissance wax on it does not show ANY flaws and marks and this for about $200 less than a new one. Good guns for fair prices are out there. It's like looking for a wife--don't settle for second best--I've had that experience it "ain't" good