lifter number check

[Holeshot]

this gun has the new style pins, new in 1882 I made some springs from a ball point pin. I guess if they don't last long I'll try something else thanks for all your inputs Dave

[Double Trouble]

Did all hammer guns have "return springs" on the firing pins ?

My ca. 1886 12 ga. hammer gun's firing pins don't have any springs (or they're both broken).

[Autumn Daze]

John, I have owned several guns made from about the 24,000 serial and later. These guns were the "solid head plunger"type and none had springs. The plungers were free floating.

[Holeshot]

that could very well be the answer I was looking for. There were no springs or pieces of springs, I just assumed they were needed to keep firing pins back. I was probably wrong. Thanks again Dave

[Coach]

In my experience, the guns that do not have springs, don't have room for them to be installed in the hole that receives the plunger. Tried it.

#38569 - 1884 - No springs
#59601 - 1880 - Springs

[Holeshot]

RST shells arrived today, rim of shells catch on firing pins when I try to close gun. Reinstalled springs and problem solved. I guess if the spring fits, wear it!