What's the correct revolver cylinder closing procedure?

[soIcouldSee]

Assuming there is one. I should note I'm referring specifically to the S&W 642/442 J-Frames, although I'm sure any procedure would apply to most revolvers.

I'm wondering if the cylinder pockets/grooves should be lined up with the bolt as close as possible when closing the cylinder to minimize or prevent turn line? Also, after the cylinder is latched closed, should it then be manually rotated until the bolt fits into the pocket?

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[lchamp]

On my S&W revolvers, it's just been a flick of the wrist for the last 50 years or so. My other revolvers need pulling or pushing something. As long as the hammer isn't cocked or the trigger pulled, they are relatively safe. I don't think the cylinder can even be closed on an unsafe gun.

[DRM]

Whatever you do don't use the "one-handed-sling-it-shut" method like you see on TV. That's where you hold the gun with the shooting hand an "flick it" to shut and close the cylinder. That will eventually bend the crane and mess up the alignment.

Rotating the cylinder until it clicks and stops won't hurt anything and should be done.

[lchamp]

Whatever you do don't use the "one-handed-sling-it-shut" method like you see on TV. That's where you hold the gun with the shooting hand an "flick it" to shut and close the cylinder. That will eventually bend the crane and mess up the alignment.

Rotating the cylinder until it clicks and stops won't hurt anything and should be done.

Gee, I have been using the 'flick' method for over 50 years without problem and had those revolvers at the range last week with better accuracy than my newer 9mm pistols.

[BkCo1]

I line the cylinder up with the barrel and push it shut. I don't mistreat my weapons.

[OldVet]

On the one revolver I owned that the cylinder opened, I closed it with my weak hand and spun the cylinder with my thumb until it latched.

[xXxplosive]

BKCo1..............................+1.

Close my Model 36 the same way for 37 yrs.......but I do check the cylinder rotation always to ensure it's in gear and ready to BARK if needed..

[deadguy]

closing the cylinder with a chamber in line for lock up can help reduce turn lines....if that matters to ya.

[Spovik]

I always press the cylinder slightly forward of center so that even pressure is applied to the rear and front latching mechanisms and then index by hand. Some folks are far more concerned about marks on their cylinder so they'll index the gun by cocking it, and lowering the hammer, but I haven't seen a need for that yet.

[pgrass101]

I generally close the cylinder with the thumb/palm of my weak hand turning the cylinder slightly so that it locks into place

[OD*]

Whatever you do don't use the "one-handed-sling-it-shut" method like you see on TV. That's where you hold the gun with the shooting hand an "flick it" to shut and close the cylinder. That will eventually bend the crane and mess up the alignment.

Rotating the cylinder until it clicks and stops won't hurt anything and should be done.

Only in Hollywood.

[minimalbrat]

I close it and then roll it with my thumb to make sure it is in place on my .38 special

[ksholder]

Close it with the off hand, then rotate it til it locks in place.

The one hand flick is cool and it may never mess up your gun, but it has been known to. I personally don't use it as I don't need to find out the timing of my revolver is off when I need it - badly.

[dangerranger]

When it will bend the crane is if you have one cartridge slightly out of battery and it catches on the recoil shield. The momentum is still carrying the cylinder and the crane is the weakest link! DR

[GunTrooper]

Overthinking!!!

The best thing about a revolver is its simplicity! In the heat of battle, when your fine motor skills leave and you have to rely on gross motor skills, you push the cylinder closed, then point and shoot!!

May as well practice it that way too!