Smith Top Strap loose in notch

[Roger Hansen]

Obtained a replacement top strap, but it is not "tight" on the square breech "notch". Creates a slight gap in breech closing all the way. I figure there are three methods to resolve: 1. Peen or metal punch the top strap at back of square notch; 2. Peen the square plug on top breech so that it fills the notch; 3. Try another replacement top strap and good luck. I think best option is #1. Any other options ?

[Hal]

Roger,

Mine had a lot of wear in the pivot screw. I made a new screw and it tightened mine up. Just something to look at.

[Bruce Cobb 1723V]

Is yours a Repro? what brand or original? Each has there own top strap...

[Maillemaker]

My daughter's top strap screw keeps coming loose. I need to put some locktight in it. The dovetail is fine in the barrel.

Steve

[Kevin Tinny]

Hello:

This might seem obvious, but:

Might think about how one removes the Smith carbine's pivot screw on an original.
My limited Smith experience showed the pivot screw is very well fitted.
Note screw slot position for reassembly.

If the bar locks well, when locked, it can put enough pressure on the opposite side where the pivot screw sits. Turning that screw with the bar locked can be difficult.

Smiles.
Kevin Tinny

[Roger Hansen]

Navy Arms Smith repro

[Roger Hansen]

Hal
New strap obviously has larger notch. Checked the screw and I am ok. The old top strap just "snapped" one day.

[Bruce Cobb 1723V]

That maybe your problem. Did you get the top strap from Navy Arms? Did you ask for a Navy Arms top strap?