Use only CCI Standard Velocity ammo, check.

Keep the pistol clean, check

Oil the top round of every magazine, check

Fire a thousand rounds through it, check.

 

All that and I still had three FTEs out of 75 shots in a static steel match.

 

I really want to use my Smith & Wesson Model 41 pistol for Steel Challenge, but it's got to be more reliable.

 

Anyone have any additional things to try to improve the reliability of the pistol?

 

Thanks

 

AS

I find federal bulk to be the most reliable, but you always notice in the colder weather rimfires usually struggle more ( depending on gun ) you might want to try a lighter viscosity oil.

http://guntalk-online.com/Model41maintenance.htm

Extractor tuning is about 2/3 down on the page.

You might want to try a brass brush on the chamber area, too

(I love my mid-70's A model 41)

Check to make sure your guide rod is smooth. Rough ones will impede the recoil spring during feed and eject cycles. I shot a M41 for years in bullseye and never once had an "alibi." Have you ever replaced the recoil spring? What weight spring are you using; 6, 7.5 or 8 lb.?

 

Some general tips -

http://www.bullseyep...malfunction.htm

 

Austin Behlert's tips for ejection problems:

http://www.guntalk-online.com/images/behlert1.jpg

http://www.guntalk-online.com/images/behlert2.jpg

A lot of good reading there. Thanks.

 

A couple of followup questions:

Is there a particular lower-viscosity oil you would suggest using?

What spring weight do you suggest? I have not changed out the recoil spring.

When shooting in cold weather consider removing all oil residue from the firearm and then use a dry silicone type lube. Clean and re-oil after using. Works wonders esp with 22lr. If you feel you must use oil, then Rem Oil

A lot of good reading there. Thanks.

 

A couple of followup questions:

Is there a particular lower-viscosity oil you would suggest using?

What spring weight do you suggest? I have not changed out the recoil spring.

 

I agree on the reading part. (& I wish the internet was around when I started shooting.)

 

Wolff sells a spring pack which includes 6, 6.5 & 7 lb. recoil springs. So, you get a mix to play with to tune the loads to your pistol. The M41 comes stock with a 7.5# spring.

 

I only oiled the slide rail contact points. I never introduced any oil or lube to the chamber area.

 

I think Midway or Brownell's carry Wolff.

http://www.gunspring...D1/mID58/dID261