I’ve spent some time testing the Smith and Wesson 317 out in the field, and let me tell you, it’s been an eye-opener. Don’t get me wrong; it’s a solid piece, but like anything else, it’s got its own set of challenges.
While using this revolver, I encountered a few common Smith and Wesson 317 Problems that I think you might want to know about. We’re talking about the cylinder locking up, some jamming issues, a loose rear sight, and even the occasional misfire.
So, what’s the aim of this article? Simple. I will dig into each of these problems one by one and, better yet, offer some practical solutions to get your firearm back in tip-top shape.
Overview of the Problems & their Solutions
| Problems | Solutions (Instructions) |
| Cylinder Locking Up | Clean and lightly oil the cylinder latch and ejector rod. |
| Jamming Issue | Switch ammo and clean chambers in the cylinder. |
| Loose Rear Sight | Tighten screw and use thread locker on the rear sight. |
| Misfiring Issue | Check ammo and clean firing pin. |
Problems & Solutions of Smith and Wesson 317
1. Cylinder Locking Up
So, let’s dive right in. The first issue that popped up while I was out on the range was the cylinder locking up. Yep, it’s as annoying as it sounds.
I’d be in the middle of firing, and suddenly, the cylinder wouldn’t rotate. It’s pretty frustrating, especially when aiming for consistency in your shots.
Solution
After this happened several times, I figured it was time to look for a fix. What worked for me was thoroughly cleaning the cylinder latch and ejector rod. I got rid of any grime or build-up that might’ve been causing friction.
After that, I applied a light coat of oil specifically designed for firearms. Sure enough, the cylinder started rotating like it was supposed to, no more lock-ups.
And remember, before doing any sort of maintenance, always make sure your firearm is unloaded and safe to work on. Safety comes first, always.
2. Jamming Issue
Alright, I’m moving on to the next issue I came across jamming. Jamming in any firearm is a no-go, and the Smith and Wesson 317 is no exception.
Imagine being out there, focusing on your target, pulling the trigger, and—nothing. The cylinder jams. Yeah, talk about a letdown. It happened to me more than once, and each time, it’s just as frustrating.
Solution
I took it upon myself to figure this one out. Turns out, the ammo might be your culprit. Swapping to a different brand of .22 LR rounds actually made a big difference for me.
I also took the time to clean the chambers in the cylinder; grime and residue can often be the culprits behind jamming. Once cleaned and lubricated, I went back to the range for some testing, and what do you know? The jamming was gone.
But remember, safety is paramount. Always unload your firearm before attempting any kind of maintenance.
3. Loose Rear Sight
Next up on our list is the issue of a loose rear sight. Trust me, if you’re out on the range or in any situation that requires precise aiming, a wobbly rear sight is a nightmare.
It messes with your accuracy big time. And in my case, that’s precisely what happened. I noticed my shots were off, and when I examined the gun, bingo! The rear sight was loose.
Solution
So, how did I fix this? I took a small flat-head screwdriver and tightened the screw securing the rear sight. Of course, I made sure the firearm was unloaded before starting.
Once tightened, the rear sight was as sturdy as ever. But I didn’t stop there. I used a bit of thread locker to ensure the screw wouldn’t loosen up again during use.
After the thread locker dried, I was back in business. And folks, it worked like a charm.
4. Misfiring Issue
Alright, last but definitely not least, let’s talk about misfires. I was out in the field, all set to shoot, and then—click, but no bang.
A misfire can be alarming and disrupt the rhythm you might have built up. I experienced this a couple of times, and each time, it felt like a little setback.
Solution
So, how did I resolve this issue? First off, I checked the ammo. Faulty ammunition can often be a significant cause of misfires.
Switching to another reliable brand sorted out half of the problem. Next, I inspected the firing pin and cleaned it out thoroughly, making sure there was no obstruction or dirt that could be causing the misfire.
Final Verdict
There you have it, my personal experience with the Smith and Wesson 317. No product is perfect, and this firearm is no exception.
It offers a lot of pluses, like being lightweight and easy to carry, but it comes with its own challenges. I faced issues like the cylinder locking up, jamming, a wobbly rear sight, and the occasional misfire.
Yet, every issue had a solution, from thorough cleaning and using specific oils to changing ammunition and adjusting hardware. So, if you’re considering this firearm, don’t be deterred by the minor issues.
With proper care and maintenance, it can be an excellent addition to your kit. It’s all about knowing what to do when a problem pops up. Stay informed, stay safe, and happy shooting.
FAQs
How much does a Smith and Wesson 317 weigh?
It weighs around 10.8 oz.
What frame is the Smith and Wesson 317?
It is built on an aluminum-alloy J-frame.
What does MP stand for Smith and Wesson?
It stands for Military and Police.
