The Smith & Wesson (S&W) Governor is a versatile and popular revolver, known for its ability to chamber multiple types of ammunition such as .45 ACP, .45 Colt, and .410 shotshells. While many gun owners appreciate its adaptability and use it for self-defense, home security, and even hunting, the S&W Governor is not without its issues. In this article, we will explore the most common problems associated with the S&W Governor, their causes, and solutions to ensure your firearm operates at peak performance.
Key Takeaways:
- Light primer strikes are often caused by a weak hammer spring or dirty firing pin channel.
- Cylinder binding is typically due to debris under the ejector star or a bent ejector rod.
- Timing issues result from a worn cylinder stop or misaligned hand.
- Extraction problems often occur due to dirty chambers or slight chamber size variations.
- Regular maintenance can prevent most issues.
1. Light Primer Strikes
One of the most common problems with the S&W Governor is light primer strikes. This issue occurs when the firing pin does not hit the primer hard enough to ignite the cartridge, leading to misfires—a particularly concerning issue in self-defense situations.
Causes:
- Weak Hammer Spring: Over time, the hammer spring may weaken, reducing the force applied to the firing pin.
- Dirty Firing Pin Channel: Dirt and debris accumulation in the firing pin channel can also cause light strikes.
Solutions:
- Replace the Hammer Spring: Installing a stronger hammer spring can restore proper firing pin force.
- Clean the Firing Pin Channel: Regular cleaning can help remove dirt, ensuring smooth firing pin operation.
2. Cylinder Binding
Cylinder binding is another issue reported by S&W Governor owners, where the cylinder becomes difficult to rotate or gets stuck entirely.
Causes:
- Debris Under the Ejector Star: Small particles of unburnt powder or dirt can accumulate under the ejector star, causing the cylinder to bind.
- Bent Ejector Rod: A bent ejector rod can disrupt the cylinder's alignment with the frame, leading to binding.
Solutions:
- Clean Under the Ejector Star: Remove debris using a brush or compressed air.
- Check and Replace the Ejector Rod: If bent, the ejector rod should be replaced for proper cylinder alignment.
3. Timing Issues
Timing issues refer to the improper alignment of the cylinder and barrel when the hammer is cocked. Misalignment can reduce accuracy and potentially damage the firearm.
Causes:
- Worn Cylinder Stop: The cylinder stop, which locks the cylinder in place, can wear out over time.
- Misaligned Hand: The hand that rotates the cylinder may become worn or misaligned, leading to timing issues.
Solutions:
- Replace the Cylinder Stop: A worn cylinder stop can be replaced to restore proper timing.
- Adjust the Hand: If misaligned, the hand may need adjustment or replacement, often requiring a gunsmith.
4. Extraction Problems
Some S&W Governor owners experience difficulty extracting spent casings, especially when firing .410 shotshells, which can swell after firing.
Causes:
- Dirty Chambers: Fouling in the chambers can cause casings to stick.
- Chamber Size Variation: Minor variations in chamber size can lead to tight-fitting casings.
Solutions:
- Clean the Chambers: Regular cleaning can remove residue and reduce sticking.
- Polish the Chambers: Carefully polishing the chambers can ease extraction without altering their size.
5. Accuracy Issues
Accuracy problems with the S&W Governor are often related to ammunition choice and barrel condition.
Causes:
- Ammunition Choice: Different types of ammunition perform differently in the Governor. For example, .410 shotshells are generally less accurate than .45 ACP or .45 Colt rounds.
- Barrel Condition: A dirty or worn barrel can negatively affect accuracy.
Solutions:
- Choose the Right Ammunition: Experiment with different ammo types. Many users report better accuracy with .45 Colt or .45 ACP rounds.
- Maintain the Barrel: Regularly cleaning the barrel helps maintain accuracy.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Routine maintenance is key to preventing many of the issues discussed. By taking good care of your S&W Governor, you can ensure it operates reliably when you need it most.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the firearm after each use, focusing on the cylinder, barrel, and firing pin channel.
- Proper Lubrication: Use high-quality gun oil to lubricate moving parts, but avoid over-lubricating as excess oil attracts dirt.
- Periodic Inspections: Regularly inspect critical parts like the hammer spring, cylinder stop, and ejector rod for wear or damage.
- Use Quality Ammunition: Cheap or low-quality ammo can cause light primer strikes and other issues.
- Professional Servicing: If you encounter persistent problems, consult a qualified gunsmith for expert repairs.
Conclusion
The S&W Governor is a highly versatile revolver, but it does come with its share of potential problems, ranging from light primer strikes to cylinder binding and timing issues. Understanding the causes and solutions to these issues can help you maintain your firearm and ensure it performs reliably. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and selecting the right ammunition are essential to keeping your S&W Governor in top shape.
By addressing these common problems, you can enjoy a dependable firearm that is ready when you need it for personal defense, home security, or recreational use.
FAQs
What is the most common problem with the S&W Governor?
Light primer strikes, often due to a weak hammer spring or a dirty firing pin channel, are the most common problem.
How can I prevent cylinder binding in my S&W Governor?
Regularly clean under the ejector star and ensure the ejector rod is not bent to prevent cylinder binding.
Why is my S&W Governor not firing accurately?
Accuracy issues may stem from ammunition choice or a dirty barrel. Try different ammo and ensure the barrel is clean.
How often should I clean my S&W Governor?
It’s recommended to clean the firearm after every use to prevent the buildup of dirt and fouling.
What should I do if my S&W Governor has timing issues?
Timing issues may require replacing the cylinder stop or adjusting the hand. Consult a gunsmith if necessary.
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