So... what do I do with my SAA?

[michaux]

Hey folks. I have a 3rd Gen. Colt SAA I bought new about 6 years ago. In general I'm more then pleased with the fit and finish and how it shoots. However... I discovered that as the frame screws loosen over time and shooting, when I tighten the rear cylinder frame screw I end up with a scary hair trigger pull. As a result I haven't shot it much the last year or so. I think something is being squeezed inside perhaps that changes the trigger/hammer geometry. I can home 'smith my Ruger Blackhawks but am reluctant to so so with the Colt. So, I've decided to send her out. My question is this. Do I send it back to Colt or to one of the specialty shops? I really don't want to drop a lot more dollars into it, but have some reservations as to whether Colt will put the time into it. So...any suggestion? And thanks.

Michaux

[texagun]

It's a 3rd Generation gun you bought new only 6 years ago. I would definitely send it to Colt and let them repair it properly under warranty. If you call them and explain it is a safety issue with the hair trigger they should send you a call tag to cover shipping. It shouldn't cost you a penny to have that repaired.

[peacemaker]

What is a "rear cylinder frame screw"?

If you mean the largest, most rearward screw on the side of the frame, that would be your hammer screw. If so, you are probably tightening the frame around your hammer, causing hammer bind. If it doesn't happen when that screw is loosened, then that is most likely your problem.

Two ways to resolve this.

1) Loosen the top two screws on your back strap, then loosen the hammer screw until it is just loose enough that the hammer travels freely. Then tighten the backstrap screws, then snug up ther hammer screw. What this does is makes the backstrap hold the frame apart so the hammer doesn't bind.

or, 2) (what I have ended up doing on mine) Loosen the hammer screw until it is almost unthreaded from the opposite side of the frame. You don't want to lose thread engagement, so don't back it out too far. Put a drop of 242 blue LocTite in the threaded hole and retighten the hammer screw until the hammer just begins to bind. Then back the hammer screw just enough for the hammer to move freely, and wipe off the excess LocTite from the frame and screw.

If the "hair trigger pull" can't be solved by these methods, Colt's can check it out for you and make it right.

[michaux]

Thanks peacemaker. That is the screw and that is the issue. I'll see what I can do. And much appreciate your info.

Michaux