How much cylinder side play is ok?

[Axelgear]

So, looking at a used da revolver, a Ruger Security Six, - I understand that a little play is ok, new Smiths have it so I'm not too worried, but how much is too much? Hard to measure something like this, I know, but I'm very much not looking forward to the awkward timing test where I bring a flashlight and look straight down the bore for all six chambers when it's fully locked up (trigger held after firing, hammer let down). What do you guys think? Any suggestions or tests you can think of?

[ojisan]

QBG's excellent "How to check out a revolver" thread:

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=297949

My guess after shooting over 30,000 rounds through a Sec Six that still locked up tight is that whatever play you might be feeling is normal.
These are real workhorse guns.

[Axelgear]

It has a good 4-6 mm from one side to the other sideways play, a little less when locked up.

BTW, that article is amazing - thank you very much!

[-hanko]

A "little less" than 4 to 6mm is a bunch.

Traditional tool to check timing is called a range rod...check Brownells.

[CK_32]

Look up youtube, "how to buy a revolver" or "what too look for when buying revolver".

Watched a few of those. Made a check list for my self and bought my first revolver. Everything checked out. Don't buy with doubt, buy with confidence. Don't leave the house till you know what you need to look for. Revolvers have a lot of check lists before it's cleared as a 100% working clean gun.

[M1NM]

Look for signs of shaving the bullets on the sides of the forcing cone. I assume the 4-6mm you are referring to is rotational not side to side.