The Smith & Wesson (S&W) Governor is a popular revolver known for its versatility, as it can chamber .45 ACP, .45 Colt, and .410 shotshells. This makes it an ideal firearm for personal defense, home security, and even hunting. However, like any firearm, the S&W Governor can develop issues over time, which could impact its reliability and performance. In this article, we’ll explore the most common S&W Governor problems, their causes, and practical solutions to ensure your firearm continues to operate smoothly.
Common S&W Governor Problems
1. Light Primer Strikes
Light primer strikes occur when the firing pin does not hit the primer with enough force, leading to misfires. This can be a major issue in self-defense situations where every shot counts.
Causes:
- A weak hammer spring that has lost tension.
- Debris in the firing pin channel that blocks the firing pin’s movement.
Solutions:
- Replace the hammer spring if it appears worn or weak.
- Regularly clean the firing pin channel to remove dirt and debris.
2. Cylinder Binding
Cylinder binding happens when the revolver's cylinder becomes difficult or impossible to rotate, preventing the firearm from firing.
Causes:
- Debris under the ejector star, such as unburnt powder, can cause the cylinder to bind.
- A bent ejector rod can misalign the cylinder, leading to binding.
Solutions:
- Clean under the ejector star using a brush or compressed air.
- Inspect the ejector rod for bends and replace it if necessary.
3. Timing Issues
Timing refers to the proper alignment of the cylinder and barrel when the hammer is cocked. If the timing is off, the bullet may not align correctly with the barrel, reducing accuracy.
Causes:
- A worn cylinder stop that fails to lock the cylinder in place.
- A misaligned hand, which rotates the cylinder improperly.
Solutions:
- Replace the cylinder stop to restore proper timing.
- Adjust or replace the hand to ensure accurate cylinder rotation.
4. Extraction Problems
Some S&W Governor users report difficulty extracting spent casings, particularly when using .410 shotshells, which may swell after firing.
Causes:
- Dirty chambers that cause casings to stick.
- Slight chamber size variations that lead to tighter casing fits.
Solutions:
- Regularly clean the chambers to prevent residue buildup.
- Polish the chambers to reduce friction, but take care not to alter chamber dimensions.
5. Accuracy Issues
Accuracy problems with the S&W Governor are often due to ammunition choices or a poorly maintained barrel.
Causes:
- Ammunition variation: The firearm’s ability to chamber different types of rounds can affect accuracy. For instance, .410 shotshells are typically less accurate than .45 Colt or .45 ACP rounds.
- A dirty or worn barrel can reduce accuracy.
Solutions:
- Experiment with different ammunition to find what works best for your firearm.
- Regularly clean and inspect the barrel to ensure it is in good condition.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance can prevent many of the common problems with the S&W Governor. Here are a few tips to keep your revolver in top shape:
- Clean the firearm after each use, focusing on the cylinder, barrel, and firing pin channel.
- Apply high-quality gun oil to moving parts, but avoid over-lubrication.
- Regularly inspect the hammer spring, ejector rod, and cylinder stop for signs of wear.
- Use high-quality ammunition to avoid issues like light primer strikes and extraction difficulties.
- For persistent problems, seek help from a professional gunsmith.
Conclusion
The S&W Governor is a durable and flexible revolver, but like all firearms, it can experience performance issues. By understanding these common problems and taking proactive steps to maintain your firearm, you can ensure it remains reliable. Whether you’re using it for home defense, personal protection, or recreational shooting, a well-maintained S&W Governor will give you the peace of mind that comes with owning a dependable weapon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most common problem with the S&W Governor?
The most common issue is light primer strikes, often caused by a weak hammer spring or a dirty firing pin channel.
How do I prevent cylinder binding?
Regularly clean under the ejector star and ensure the ejector rod is straight to prevent cylinder binding.
What can cause accuracy problems with the S&W Governor?
Accuracy issues can stem from the type of ammunition used or the condition of the barrel. Regular cleaning and experimenting with different ammunition types can help.
How often should I clean my S&W Governor?
It’s best to clean your S&W Governor after each use to prevent buildup and operational issues.
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