More "New-guy" Model 21 Questions....

[durco]

Hi, boys:
Two additional questions.......
1) I plan to shoot my 21. I have read two different opinions about how to close the gun after loading. One says gently close the gun (not slap shut) and let the latch lever snap shut. The other says to hold the lever to the right while closing the gun and then let the lever gently go.
I have also heard in the past that the second method is a good way to go when "playing" with the gun, but NOT the way to go prior to firing as it may allow too much play between the barrels and receiver - causing more wear in the long-run than letting the latch snap shut.
2) What is the very best lube for the pivot points and latches? I used to use RIG years ago, then switched to a very high quality, high temp disc brake wheel bearing grease with lots of EP (extreme pressure) additive, which is supposed to keep the grease from leaving the places where it is needed most.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Mike Durhan

[rperlichek]

Hey Mike: Real good question on proper way to close the gun. I personally prefer to hold the top lever over and then gently return it to position. In addition, I then put a slight amount of pressure toward the left on the top lever after the gun in closed.

It should be real interestinmg to see the responses from budrichard or perhaps Grant Tom on the subject.

As far as lube, I use STOS.

Robert Perlichek

I have 4 model '21's and love 'em.

[budrichard]

For many years I cushioned the closing of my doubles by holding the lever and then letting it close. But after subjectively feeling the lockup difference, I am now in the 'firmly close the action to obtain the best lockup' camp. Since I survived so many years without as strong a lockup, it probably doesn't make a lot of difference but I now believe firmly closing the action results in a safer and stronger lockup.
As to grease, just about any gun grease will do.-Dick

[Tim Earney]

I agree with Dick about closing the actions. Firmly, with no restriction of the top lever or locking bolt. I have several that I have shot many thousands of times during the past 30 years and have never expereinced any problem of any kind. As far as lubricant, for the past few years I have using Pro Gold from Pro Shot as well as their product Zero Friction for the moving parts. The Pro Gold stays in place on a hot day even after several hundred shots and the Zero Friction doesn't build up and works well even in sub zero temperatures. Tim Earney