I have an early model 10 that was my great grandfather’s carry gun. Overall very clean and straight gun. It has been apart as there’s evidence of tool marks on the trigger guard screw, but he had the barrel cut down at some point in time (looks to be a high quality job). I just received it after my grandfathers passing, whom kept it in a sock drawer since my great grandfathers death.
After handling it, I’ve noticed the cylinder likes to stick closed. When locked in place, it’s free, tight, and smooth like a new smith, but upon opening it feels like it has to overcome a strong detent. I found the cause, but don’t understand the root issue. The gas ring is contacting the underside of the forcing cone/ barrel while in transit. No contact when locked. Looking closer, I’ve determined the extractor rod and center rod are true, as there’s no wobble to the cylinder. I’ve also determined that the crane isn’t bent, as the crane mates with the frame so cleanly the seam about disappears when closed, and the cylinder sits square within the frame. The barrel was reinserted straight and pinned.
The gas ring appears to be tapered, and the highest point on its rear is contacting the barrel when closed.
What would be a possible root cause of this? Aftermarket gas ring that’s slightly oversized?
I’d like to take care of the issue, but don’t want to be too invasive as the blue on the gun is still very good for a 61 year old gun.
Gas ring (bottom) contacting barrel (top) looking from left side of gun.
Blue worn off barrel on area of contact.