Author Topic: First F.A.  (Read 819 times)

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Offline greenrivers

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First F.A.
« on: April 21, 2012, 05:07:12 AM »
Guys, I am about to purchase my first FA model 83 in .454 Casull, and am looking for experianced buyers. Aside from the normal handgun issues what should I be looking for? The revolver is being sold by a dealer and rated at 95% and is a Field grade with a 2X Leupold. I have only handled these fine revolvers on a couple occasions and only in gun shops. One was perfect in apearance the second had what seemed a worn hand and was out of time. Are there any issues exclusive to these revolvers? Thanks for any insight.

Offline tatonka

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Re: First F.A.
« Reply #1 on: April 22, 2012, 05:31:09 PM »
Congratulations on the decision. Yes there is one major issue that I have found with FA revolvers - they are addicting. I have several and have no problems with any in 454 and 44 special (my current inventory calibers). They are accurate but care must be taken in selecting proper bullet diameter compatible with your particular bore when shooting cast bullets. Dry firing must be done with snap caps. I would highly recommend FA's to anyone who can appreciate a finely crafted machine. Good shooting!

Offline greenrivers

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Re: First F.A.
« Reply #2 on: April 23, 2012, 02:19:19 AM »
tatonka, thanks for the reply. I guess I spoke to soon. Yesterday I looked at the revolver and first impressions were favorable. It is an older model without the easily replacable firing pin. The cylinder faces indicated it had been enjoyed but no cylinder movement or other ware seemed evident aside from a drag line on the cylinder, until I checked the timing and something was obviously wrong. Upon closer inspection the locking lug had been over stressed and was bent. Checking the drag line showed an incorrect lock-up and movement to center on the leads. This is the second like it that I have checked with the same issue. Obviously some feel that hotter than needed loads are required to find out how much these fine revolvers can stand! As my SRH is now filling the caliber choice, I am not in a hurry. But it seems a shame to put this kind of abuse back on an unsuspecting buyer. I believe that in both guns, the shops were genuin in not knowing of the problems as they were quite surprised. Perhaps the third when found will be the one!

Offline doghawg

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Re: First F.A.
« Reply #3 on: April 24, 2012, 07:35:29 AM »
greenrivers

 My only problem was with my first FA...an early production .454 that was in pristine condition. Someone had apparently dry fired it a LOT before I got it (which can "peen" the firing pin) and the firing pin would occasionally stick in the forward position and tie the gun up. I sent it to FA and John installed the new style bushing firing pin, did a three pound trigger job and corrected another issue I wasn't even aware of. I have nothing but good to say about FA customer svc.

 My personal preference is the FA three pound trigger and have it on all of mine. It is a shame anyone would have to abuse such a fine piece of equipment but in the case of my first .454 it all worked out well...it's about the most accurate revolver I've ever encountered.

Offline greenrivers

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Re: First F.A.
« Reply #4 on: April 24, 2012, 05:58:57 PM »
Thanks to these forums provided by Graybeard, and the information others have provided, I was tempted to make an offer on this revolver. But as it was a field grade and just shipping alone can be expensive, I decided not to. I believe the shop that took it in will repair the weapon and not put it on someone else. I am very anxious to own my first and experiance the accuracy that I have read them capable of. It will likely see very few full power loads as I have donated enough trigger guard blood, but to own and use that kind of quality is at the top of my list. It is good to know that yours worked out for you. Lord willing my turn will come.