Question on older smith revolver function

[Shanks4300]

I handled a used 14-3 today and noticed that when the cylinder was locked in the frame, it was possible to rotate it manually to the next firing position. Is this normal for a Smith? My only revolver experience is my gp100 and you can't turn the cylinder manually once it is locked into the frame. Thx.

 

[Hitzy]

Nope...not suppose to do that with the hammer up or down.

 

[enefgee]

If you pull the hammer back between rest and the single action notch, the cylinder will rotate, if the hammer is back, or down and the cylinder rotates it needs work.

 

[Shanks4300]

Thanks for the replies guys; hammer was down and it didn't seem right but I didn't know for sure. Glad I resisted the impulse, sure did feel nice in my hand.

 

[Canuck223]

You may be able to rotate the cylinder forward or back one position until it's locked by the bolt at the bottom. After it locks up, you'd need to release that bolt by pulling the trigger or cocking the gun.

 

[Shanks4300]

This one would go through all 6 positions, nfg.

 

[BCRider]

That one certainly needs some work.

But you are right that there's not many guns out there that are sweeter than a K frame Smith&Wesson.

 

[Brutus]

I guess it all comes down to personal preferance. I have had a steady diet of n-frames with a k-frame. But it seems my mittens much prefer the Colt Model 357. So with that noted, maybe the l-framed 586/686 should be my S&W choice?