S&W New Model 19 Detent

J

jski

New member
What is the purpose to the ball detent on the
New Model 19s?
  1. Greater rigidity?
  2. Does it work?
  3. Any problems?
 
D

Dfariswheel

New member
The ball detent is to replace the no longer used front locking lug on the barrel.

This was first used on custom PPC guns that had heavy barrels installed and had no forward locking lug.
Since they needed a front lock, the ball detent was invented.

It works, and was a time tested design before S&W ever used it.

There are no problems with it unless it's just plain defective.
 
C

CajunBass

New member
I remember when I first got mine a couple of years ago, it was pretty hard to open, but over time it has gotten easier. I don't even notice it anymore.
 
J

jski

New member
CajunBass, thanks for the heads-up !
I just got the S&W Model 19 Carry Comp and love it. Feels as solid as a door on a huge bank safe.
 
E

EIGHTYDUECE

New member
It was added to allow more clearance for the barrel forcing cone. The original model 19 forcing cone had a flat on the bottom just like all K frames. This thinner area was fine for lower pressure rounds like .38 special but with the hot .357 magnum rounds, this area would sometimes crack. It was a very known weakness in the K frame .357 magnums. This new ball detent allows enough clearance to have a full forcing cone like on the L frames.
 
J

jski

New member
EIGHTYDUECE, would you elaborate on: “This new ball detent allows enough clearance to have a full forcing cone like on the L frames.” How does the detent allow for a thinker forcing cone? More details please!
 
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