Help! Mod 83 stuck at half cock!

[txpitdog]

I fired a round and then moved the hammer to half cock to rotate the cylinder and remove the shell. The hammer is stuck, trigger stuck, and cylinder stuck. Gun is empty except for a spent case.  What should I do?

Just got this thing, and I'm afraid I bought someone else's headache. 

[HGunner]

The good news is that Freedom Arms customer service is outstanding.  Call them when you can have your gun in hand and either Bob Baker (the owner) or John (the head gunsmith) will walk through the problem with you and probably fix it or at least diagnose it.  They have fixed two issues for me over the phone in the past - one on a gun I bought new and the other on a gun I bought used.  They were equally helpful both times.  Honestly, I have been amazed at their customer service and super fast repair times.  I have had issues with Rugers and S&Ws over the years and all I ever get from them is "ship it back and we'll look at it" -- they usually fix the problem but the wait can be long and the communication is generally poor.  But don't misunderstand, I really like Ruger and Smith too!

[txpitdog]

Called, spoke with John, and he said to send it in.  Needs a new "hand".   Fortunately the seller is an honest guy and is covering the cost for repair. 

[sc1911cwp]

If you are going to send it in, you will need to overnight it and that is expensive. See if there is a local FFL that can send it more cheaply, plus insurance. Last time I sent mine shipping by FedEx overnight was close to $100.00one way. You can send it Fedex but you must tell them it is a firearm. Do not mark it as such. It is on their website.

[zac0419]

If your FFL will send it USPS w insurance, even if he charges you $20, it'll only cost $30-$40 in the end. Much better.

[txpitdog]

Thanks for the suggestions.  Didn't think of that. So I am $100.83 into the project already. 

[HGunner]

Well, if there's a bright side, they'll likely check the action thoroughly when making that repair.  That would give me some peace of mind going forward.  Please, let us know how it goes.

[txpitdog]

John checked and repaired the action and trigger back to stock. Picked it up today.  Hopefully NOW I can enjoy my revolver. 

[HGunner]

I think Freedom Arms service is pretty special - my experience has been outstanding.  I think its amazing that you can buy a gun used, have the FA head gunsmith diagnose a problem for you over the phone, send in the gun for repair and have it back in your hand in a week!   I hope it shoots well for you.  My favorite powder in the 454 is IMR-4227.  I have had excellent results with Montana Bullet Works gas checked bullets in the 300 grain range.  Mine also really likes the Cast Performance 335 grain WFNGC pushed about 1200 fps with 4227.