Gunsmith for J-Frame action job?

LH2 · 10-11-2011, 02:03

I've got the Apex kit installed in my 442. Trigger is smoother than factory but still really heavy. Also, after the (internal) hammer drops, the trigger feels sort of gritty on the return. This isn't something I've noticed in previous J-frames, and I've had five or six of them.

I'm thinking about just sending it off for a thorough polishing / action job.

Who are some recommended gunsmiths for these little guys?

A 'smith in Arizona would be a plus since shipping is so expensive.

MtnBiker · 10-18-2011, 18:52

I wish I could help you with a 'smith recommendation. I've been thinking of doing the same with my 642.

A few weeks ago at the outdoor range, a guy let me try his charter arms .38. He had a $25 trigger job done on it years ago. WOW! I've never shot a revolver that was so smooth.

I wonder what the going rate is these days?

HotRoderX · 10-19-2011, 00:03

I was told a good trigger job can cost 50-200 dollars depending on who does it. I know my Smith and Wesson 36 most likely has a trigger job done to it. The gun was a police trade in and after feeling how smooth the trigger was the shop told me most of them where slicked up by the armor at the station. I think the best thing you can do is maybe just ask around at the gun range.

2740dmx · 10-19-2011, 06:18

I have read that the Apex kits can leave one with a gritty or mushy feeling upon trigger return...

You might look into Gemini Customs, who are known for work on Ruger SP101 and 1911, but they most definitely work on J-frames as well!

up1911fan · 10-19-2011, 08:35

Marc Morganti, Jim Milks or Cylinder and Slide.

***mikey357*** · 10-20-2011, 21:35

In Arizona, I'd go with: Nelson E. Ford -- The Gunsmith, Inc.--North Village Plaza -- 10210 North 32nd Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85028 (602) 992-0050 Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
HTH....mikey357

MajorD · 10-21-2011, 11:14

most of the old cop guns have smooth triggers for two reasons- smith used to be a lot more carful with polishing, but also alot of those guns saw a lot of use-especially dry fire which smoothed them out.
considering the role a j frame has,I'd leave mine stock (which I have) and shoot it until it is smooth- which will improve the trigger and your ability with the snubbie

buddah · 10-31-2011, 14:20

Did you try to stone the bottom of the rebound slide assembly? I just had the apex J-frame spring kit installed in my 642. The kit is not a true drop in kit. When I changed out the rebound spring and put everything back together the trigger would not reset. Turns out that the lighter rebound spring didn't have enough force to reset rebound slide assembly. My smith stoned the bottom of the RSA and while he was in there I had the nub removed so the idiot lock won't ever give me any trouble. Trigger pull is very smooth now.

TedG · 11-03-2011, 18:21

Google "Actions by T"

Teddy Jacobson is the best action-specialist in the country.