Sand in S&W 442 revolver

[rp_photo]

I just got back from a beach photo shoot and noticed that my pocket holster and EDC S&W 442 revolver had picked up some sand.

I blasted the gun internally and externally with "canned air", but can still hear some sand crunching when pulling the trigger or the cylinder release.

What would be my best course of action?

[Dan20703]

Disassemble and clean out sounds like the route I would take before ever pulling the trigger again.

[joe817]

Disassemble and clean out sounds the route I would take before ever pulling the trigger again.

No doubt about it. I'd also remove the grips and repeat the process. Obviously, sand has worked its way into the action.

If that doesn't work, you might want to think about taking it to a gunsmith for a good cleaning.

[Excaliber]

I would try this sequence first:

1. Remove the sideplate that gives access to the receiver mechanism

2. Give it a good washout with a gun degreasing spray (lubricant may be holding sand particles in place and canned air won't dislodge them)

3. Follow that with a thorough application of canned air

4. Put the sideplate back and test.

If #4 is successful, remove the sideplate again and lube moving parts lightly

If #4 is unsuccessful, either do a full disassembly and clean (if you know how) or bring it to a gunsmith and have him do it.

[The Annoyed Man]

Disassemble and clean out sounds the route I would take before ever pulling the trigger again.

This. The minerals in sand can be harder than steel. If you're hearing crunching, it's because bits of sand are getting ground between engaging surfaces which are supposed to be smooth. Each crunch risks damaging those surfaces. Until you can get the gun thoroughly clean, you might be doing the kind of damage that requires parts polishing/replacement each time you pull that trigger. Stop doing it.

[E.Marquez]

No amount of "short cut" cleaning is going to get you what you need.. Full disassembly and clean.
If your not comfortable doing so, take it to a gunsmith. it's an easy job for them, disassembly, sonic tank, dry, inspect for wear and damage, reassembly, lube, hand off.

[carlson1]

. . . disassembly, sonic tank, dry, inspect for wear and damage, reassembly, lube, hand off.

This is what I would do. I would put it in a sonic tank and then lube. I would be afraid to take the chance of any sand staying inside the mechanism.

[Deltaboy]

Go to a gun Smith.