Grip frame screws

[Hugh]

When removing grip frames from my two 1979 vintage blue .45 Cal New Model Blackhawks (one is 7-1/2" and the other is 4-5/8") I have noted that the bottom left screw is longer than the one on the bottom right. The schematic at Numrich refers to the longer screw as Grip Frame Screw and Pivot Lock and shows it on the right side.

Could two different people, unknown to each other, have reassembled these two shooters wrong. Or is the Numrich site schematic wrong? Or is this a change since 1979?

I am certain the 7-1/2" has been apart because it is clear that a previous owner has smoothed up the action, changed springs, and front and rear sights. The 4-5/8" has original hardware, but has a very smooth action which appears to be from a lot of shooting over the years, and bluing wear (character.) Not saying it has not been apart because I just don't know.

 

[rugerguy]

yes, they all TOO often will have the screw in the back 'switched', the LONGER one with the shank extension is "supposed" to retain the hammer pivot pin, and you can put the screws in, either way, they will go and instead of going in the groove, it just forces itself against the pivot pin, somethime they will NOT go in , but at times they do..........in time, if its 'wrong', you can actually push out the pivot pin if one tries......so make sure the pivot pin groove position is the same side as the proper screw, or vice versa........some of us are left handed besides :roll:
and we will not even get into dyslexia either... 8)


GO Navy.............. :wink:

 

[Hugh]

Thank you. I just removed the two screws and attempted to install the longer one in the right side. It came to a stop just before the head entered the hole, so I didn't force it. I removed it and sent it down the hole on left side and it easily went down all the way. It looks like the pivot pin is in "backwards." I understand it will go in either way; just put the "locking" screw on the correct side. That suits me; works fine, will last a long time. The other shooter is out getting the ears on it's new steel grip frame shortened. I'll check it when it comes home.

 

[Olsherm]

I believe that the Ruger manuals say the long grip screw should be on the "loading gate side">However the pin would have to inserted correctly.

 

[flatgate]

It looks like the pivot pin is in "backwards." I understand it will go in either way; just put the "locking" screw on the correct side.

I'll test fit the hammer pivot pin and its' retaining screw to see which way it "fits" the cylinder frame and doesn't protrude out from its' bore and be unsightly.

JMHO,

flatgate