H&R Model 158 Won't Fire

[rdryman]

Hoping someone can provide advice on a "project gun" I bought from a pawn shop cheap.  This is a Model 158 in 16 Gauge made in 1965 according to serial number.  The hammer will not drive the firing pin to make contact with shell.  I have disassembled the receiver and the firing pin is not broken and the firing pin spring looks new.  I suspect the hammer spring may have weakened if its the original.  This gun does not appear to use a striker or lifter assembly.  Could anything other than a weak hammer spring be the cause of the problem?  Thanks.
 
Bob

[quickdtoo]

Order a Wolff extra power double coil hammer spring, the usual cure for misfires/no fires. Transfer bars didn't happen until the late 70's.

Tim

http://www.gunsprings.com/index.cfm?page=items&cID=2&mID=27

[rdryman]

Thanks Tim.  I have one of those on the way and with any luck that will fix any issues.

[gcrank1]

How about the firing pin protrusion? Did you take the firing pin out, clean the bits and channel, etc.? If not, you really should. Some kind of 'dry-lube ' in there would be a good idea too.