cattabliss: Since my guns see frequent use, I like to keep pretty much a full set of replacement parts on hand. Especially those small internal parts that either break, wear, or get lost easily. Which includes a full set of screws, ie: back strap/frame, trigger guard, hammer and trigger pivots, etc.
If anything will go missing....screws are usually the first. So it's always a good idea to have extra.
Next: Springs. Main spring. Bolt/trigger return spring. Hand spring.*
* I like to keep several of these on hand at all times. It is very easy to pinch and damage these little springs against the frame, when re-attaching the grip back strap. So be sure to include several in your parts kit.
It bears mentioning that most...if not all... new Pietta Model 1873 reproduction revolvers, feature a coil spring loaded plunger to maintain tension on the hand. Similar to Ruger revolvers. A very smart move by Pietta, in my view.
Some older models may still have the older leaf spring type attached to the hand. If your revolver has one of these, be sure to have several replacements. The leaf spring is prone to breakage. The new coil spring/ plunger arrangement though, is very reliable.
Not super critical, but always nice to have on hand: Replacement hand. Cylinder locking bolt. Ejector spring. Firing pin. The list can go on, but that pretty much covers it.
I highly recommend swapping out the stock bolt/trigger return spring( twin lobed leaf spring), for an aftermarket replacement wire spring. The stock spring(Copied from the original 19th century Colt revolver design), is prone to breakage....usually at the worst possible time. Like in the middle of a major match! The wire springs are far more reliable and very durable. The replacement spring can be ordered through Rusty Wood Trading. Very easy to install.
Parts, I generally order through VTI Gun Parts. No problem shipping to Canada. Also: Rusty Wood.
As for what defines "hard" use....that will depend on how much a person shoots. Plus how often. Difficult to estimate an overall total but, an "average" shooter might go through anywhere from 100-200 rounds per month. Possibly more, depending on how much live fire practice is included. For many "serious" competitors though, rounds expended can easily run into the multiple thousands per year. Including competition and training.
Depending on where a person lives, it is entirely possible to attend one or more matches a month...year round. In the busy summer season...one or two a week. Factor in practice time. The tally soon adds up.
Competition guns also get run at near maximum speed all the time...far in excess of what they would endure under "normal" conditions. They take a beating and see plenty of wear and tear. So having a selection of critical parts on hand, is essential.
But, if a person maintains their guns regularly, they will run reliably for a very long time. Pietta revolvers being no exception.
Hope some of this helps. Al
