Single Six cracked grip frame

[scidx]

I picked up my new-to-me single six (1975 according to ruger website) last night. I've taken apart Ruger SAs, so I didn't have a problem with breaking it down or putting it together; at least I thought. I cleaned out the guts and reassembled. The grip frame looks like it fits fine. I pulled the hammer back which made a sound like contacting plastic. I noticed the forend of the backstrap (area between the two rear grip screws), was cracked a bit. It curves underneath the rear of the hammer (above where the hammer contacts the hammer strut). I'm not sure if I caused this or I didn't notice it before.

Has anyone had this problem? The grip frame does not look like it is mounted too high. I don't think I could move it, either. Is this a common flaw of older single sixes?

Thanks for any assistance.

[scidx]

Maybe a picture would help.

This is the best picture I could get. It's a bit fuzzy, but the crack (or roll) is right under the hammer.

[ojisan]

Not that I am any good at taking pictures, but use the portrait setting on the camera to improve close-in pics.
It could be that the grip frame was cracked earlier (by being tightened unevenly?) and you are just now seeing it.
There is not much recoil to the .22LR round, so you are probably fine shooting it as is.
Just watch and see if the crack gets worse.
The good news is the grip frames are sold separate so you can easily replace it if need be.

[BSlacker]

The pic is fuzzy but it looks like the hammer strut is to high. The notch should be lower towards the bottom of the grip frame screws.

[scidx]

the hammer strut is to high.

I'll check that out.