I had read quite a few horror stories about fit, finish, stiff action, bad trigger, ammo cycling problems, bad furniture, so while I had loaded several into shopping carts over the years I had never pulled the trigger.
I found one on line recently at what I considered a good price, so I finally dove in. While it was shipping across country I went shopping for sights, springs, Steve's trigger guide, TruOil and sandpaper preparing to do some work to get the gun to run.
Picked it up Saturday and took it home for a CLP bath, and spent some time over the weekend just cycling the action. Finally had a chance to get to the range over lunch. Loaded 5 Freedom Ammunition 38 Special FMJ, and cranked one into the chamber. It jammed against the top of the bore.
I backed it off a bit and tried again and it glided into the chamber. Ran a couple off to get used to the feel of where they would land. Once I was satisfied with a sight picture I cranked one off, and it hit dead center at 30 yards. Tried another 5 rounds, this time Bitteroot Valley Ammo Company 38 LSW. Laid down two 1" groups at different spots on the target. On to some Blazer JHP .357 I had in the bag. First two landed about 3" low of POA, so I adjusted my hold a bit and put one right on the nose.
Bottom line, I think I got a good one. Accurate as I can make it right out of the box, the trigger is crisp, and while I have not guaged it yet, not overly heavy. I plan to leave the sights, although I may eventually go to the Marbles Bullseye rear, I'm happy with the front. The spring kit might come later, but isn't a necessity either. The fit and finish were nice, but the orange stain has got to go. (it can't all be good). I think I'll try the TruOil rub over the existing stain, and can always do a complete refinishing later.
Just wish I hadn't waited so long, but I couldn't be more pleased!
