Relic question

[garand4life]

For those of you who have spent a life time buying selling trading using shooting relics. I was given a few years ago a H&R .38s&w breaktop auto-ejector. Not in the greatest shape finish wise but the ejector functions and the cylinder advances with every pull of the trigger. My problem is that when the trigger is pulled it does not reset. I can with my trigger finger push the trigger forward to reset. The trigger is not loose and has a strong pull like I would expect from a double action revolver. I have not fired live rounds since I do not as yet trust the safety of the gun being as old as it is and the condition revolving around the trigger has re-enforced my caution. It this likely something as simple as a spring and should I even put the money into having someone break it down for repair? I have no plans to carry it. At most maybe for a day at the range it all I will ever put it to. My lack of familiarity with the gun put me at a disadvantage. Is there any true collector value to these old H&Rs?

[david86440]

Are you sure it's a .38S&W because it looks a lot like a .32.

I'm not an authority so I can't answer any of your questions but I do own a S&W in .32 S&W that looks similar sized to yours.

[garand4life]

It is for sure a .38S&W CTGE. As labeled on the left side of the barrel.

[m25operator]

G4LIfe, It could be a trigger return spring with insufficient tension, or the rebound slide binding, I would first take the grips off, hose it down good or soak it in solvent, if it is nickel definitely don't use hoppes #9, simple green and water heated on the stove would also be excellent. Then blow it dry and lube with a good liquid that will allow it to penetrate without disassembly. I like FP 10. Cock the hammer and dribble some lube down from the top as well. You never know. I have had pistols that WD40 had been used and then put away, and the nature of WD turns to a very hard wax. Good cleaning solved all the problems.

[garand4life]

This one doesn't have an exposed hammer. Is that going to be a problem?

[Sponsor]

[CJS3]

I have a similar pistol that I just refinished. A Meriden top break in 38 S&W. There is a spring and pin assembly that connects the trigger to the hand. If the spring is broken or worn out, or if the pin is corroded or broken, that could be causing your problem.http://www.downrange.tv/forum/index.php?topic=8748.0

[m25operator]

G4life, not a problem, just not as easy. I am saying try the easy button first, solvent and lube, beyond that find a schematic and take it apart your self to inspect. Now adays, taking digital photos of the disassembly is a good thing when putting it back together.