Introduction
The Smith and Wesson 929 has become one of the most dominating revolvers in existence, and it is no surprise, considering the precision and adaptability that the users enjoy. However, as with every great invention, there are also some little things to watch for. It does not matter if you are an experienced marksman or just turns out to be a lucky fling with the revolver; finding out what are the most common issues with the 929 and how to resolve them will save you a lot of trouble in the shooting range.
From the difficult release of the cylinder to the hard to pull triggers, we outline six struggles that a lot of users face every day and provide practical tips on how to keep this wheel gun doing what is was intended for. Let’s take a deep look at some of these Smith and Wesson 929 problems and also provide you solutions to help get back into shooting competition!
6 Problems & Solutions for the Smith and Wesson 929
Commonly known and used revolvers are the Smith and Wesson 929, however, it does have its fair share of peculiarities. Knowing some of the common Smith and Wesson 929 problems can improve your enjoyment of the revolver.
- Cylinder Release Issue
- Single Action Trigger Issue
- Cases Stuck in the Cylinder
- Heavy Trigger Problem
- Firing Issue
- Problem with the Moon Clip
1. Cylinder Release Issue & Its Solution
Although the Smith and Wesson 929 is a very reliable revolver, it does have a few “but” drawbacks. One common Smith and Wesson 929 problems is usually the case of the cylinder release which causes quite a number of users irritation due to it not working well. It happens most often when the cylinder is either stuck or seemingly does not lock up properly.
First and foremost, the vicinity of the switch should be checked for any obstructions. Even the tiniest particles such as dust can prevent the parts from functioning as they are supposed to. A rag moist with warm water should be the first approach in cleaning the surface. If this does not work, try using oil specially made for guns to wet the inner working mechanisms of the system.
For instance, it may also be affixed rather too tightly to the surface, having glued or stuck over the years of course. Some excessive vertical play may also be noticed in the release lever where internal springs or parts might need servicing or changing. It may also be noted that such periodic maintenance services will assist in preventing the functional Smith and Wesson 929 problems or even its long-standing incapacity.
2. Single Action Trigger Issue & Its Solution
At times, the single action trigger may be experienced as Smith and Wesson 929 problems. This is usually caused by insufficient lubricant or dirt accumulation in the internal system.
In this regards, begin by assembling your revolver with utmost care. All regions must be cleaned with an appropriate solvent and all forms of contamination eliminated. Clean especially the trigger assembly and the sear surfaces.
After cleaning the parts, in order to lubricate the moving parts of the revolver, it is necessary to perform a light oiling but do not soak the movable parts. After reassembling the gun, check the trigger pull once again. It should have improved this time offering that sharp break one expects from a well built revolver.
If the Smith and Wesson 929 problems continue then it would be best to take a look at the spring tension that may need to be fixed or replaced for proper function. If regular maintenance is performed, the trigger will serve you well for many years.
3. Cases Stuck in the Cylinder & Its Solution
One common Smith and Wesson 929 problems is known as broken case extraction. This occurs whenever the bullets have been fired and the remaining cases get broken off and stuck inside the cylinder. Ideally many times this comes after quite a considerable delay even the first or second round fired and even much more with reloads and low quality brass ammunition.
An optimistic thought will always make one reluctant to believe that he will have to use a broken case extractor. Keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction, and that the firearm is unloaded, try to remove the bullet with a plastic mallet placed against the ex-pulldown cam. It is mainly employed in extraction of the cases without destroying other parts.
It is not so much of a burden as it is not compulsory and preferably done even before shooting by applying a thin layer of grease on the mouth of the cartridge before loading. A very, very thin layer of oil put inside the shells will help to remove the shells after from the cylinder and also help to make sure that the shells do not stick to the cylinder.
One is, when we say changing the belt, there is also an important dimension; Take out all unnecessary clutter, including that located in the cylinder and other inclusions causing blockage’. The manner in which a revolver is kept would motivate the user or demotivate the user when the need arises.
4. Heavy Trigger Problem & Its Solution
The first Smith and Wesson 929 problems that a novice shooter encounters right with his equipment is the stiff trigger. This causing the different people experiencing with the shooting equipment to experience difficulties in aiming. The Smith and Wesson 929, which is smooth-operating as it is known, will not make you fight with the heavy trigger.
One of the above causes might be the dirt and dust accumulation within the action. Routine cleaning and maintenance in this case would come in handy. Do remember also to apply a thin layer of quality gun oil on the necessary moving parts.
If you think that there is a high chance of messing everything up by trying to do it for yourself, perhaps it is best to consult a professional gunsmith. For example, they will provide you with the benefits of their expertise with respect to your gun and your needs, as a result you will be able to be on target in no time.
5. Firing Issue & Its Solution
One of the Smith and Wesson 929 problems most people experience is when the revolver does not fire even after the trigger had been pulled once. This issue can come up due to a number of reasons that include the quality of the ammunition, and/or mechanical problems.
First of all, make sure that you are using high-grade, reliable round. Inferior rounds should not be used as they are susceptible to misfires because of shallow seated primers or uneven powder weights. If the initial ammunition already tested is not sufficient, it would be worth trying different manufacturers of the same caliber in order to find one that works well with your gun.
Assuming ammo isn’t the issue, let’s take a look at the firing pin and firing pin spring assembly. If a firing pin is broken, the gun may not fire even after pulling the trigger. If that is the case, buy a new firing pin for replacement since an old and defective part can affect the trustworthiness of the weapon. Lastly, look for any loose substance inside the cylinder assembly which can affect the normal operation of the mechanism.
6. Problem with the Moon Clip & Its Solution
One of the most important Smith and Wesson 929 problems is the moon clip. Moon speed loaders help in quick reloading, however, over time certain complications can arise. One such common issue is the bending and warping of the moon clips. This can twist the clip so that it becomes unlevel to the cylinder.
In turn, this may cause failures to feed spent rounds into the cylinder or failures to extract as spent rounds become stuck in the moons. Check your moon clips from time to time for any bends or deformations. If damaged clips are promptly discarded, you will not have Smith and Wesson 929 problems on the range.
Another concern is that the cases will not be seated correctly inside the clip. Make sure all rounds are well seated into their cannelures before placing them inside the revolver.
When it comes to cleaning, take care that the clips and even the cylinder are cleaned of any dirt and gunk. If you take care of such maintenance, there will be no Smith and Wesson 929 problems in the operation of the unit and you will not waste your time waiting to shoot because of small problems!
FAQs – Smith and Wesson 929 Problems
Q1: What caliber is the ammunition that perfectly fits the Smith and Wesson 929?
The use of high-end revolver friendly .9mm ammunition helps to maximize its effectiveness. Always consider the manufacturers’ installation guidelines before heading to the range next.
Q2: Will changing trigger pull weights in my S&W 929 void its warranty?
In most cases, yes because many fans like to modify their triggers for lighter pull or better feel. In any case, a professional gunsmith should be consulted in order not to compromise the safety of the weapon.
Q3: How often should I clean my Smith and Wesson 929?
Regular cleaning after every few uses is recommended. This practice serves to enhance how effective it is, and steady damages are prevented.
Q4: Is this model accompanied by a service contract for new purchases?
Most manufacturers provide warranty periods for their products against malfunctions as a result of defective material or workmanship. Don’t forget to register your gun as soon as possible to enjoy his benefits.
Q5: Do you need moon clips to make full use of the 929?
They increase performance during reloading, but otherwise you can load normal rounds without them. Just do not forget about the extraction problems that are likely to arise when you opt out.
Conclusion
One should understand that a user of the Smith and Wesson 929 revolver should find the aspects of the design that are most operationally inconvenient and be ready to deal with them in order to use the firearm effectively. Firearms cannot be termed as perfect by any means but understanding the likely challenges that may affect the use of a firearm does help to improve the users’ overall satisfaction with the said firearm.
To include reversing the cylinder release, problems with moon clips and other several problems typical to this particular gun all represent an angle where improvement can be a possibility. And with the proper solutions. On top of fixing these Smith and Wesson 929 problems, undertaking some activities to improve performance ensures that the pleasure of using the wonderful gun is never lost.
Gun Care and Maintenance are very essential in promoting good functioning. Most importantly, pinpoint those sections that are likely to pose challenges, arm yourself with solutions to those when the need arises, and there will be no doubts that the Smith and Wesson 929 will be able to complete its purposes for a considerable length of time.