Open top hammer question

[sackettboys]

Hello-
Recently picked up this new to me open top conversion in 38 Special. The former owner had mentioned light primer strikes with reloads so I started looking here in the forums for some answers.

I first thought maybe there was some debris stuck in the firing pin area as it was mounted in the frame. I noticed some threads on hammer safeties so I took a closer look at the hammer and noticed a depression in the hammer face. I originally thought this was the way the hammer was made. Then I noticed a screw in the back of the hammer. When I adjusted the screw, the depression disappeared and so did the light primer strikes. I haven't messed very much with open top conversions so this was new to me. Was this common in open top conversions?

The only markings I can find are "Navy Arms" under the barrel and "38 Special" above the wedge. The trigger guard and back strap are nickel plated. It seems to be well made and shoots dead on at 20 yds.

[sackettboys]

Here's a photo of the revolver

[Tuolumne Lawman]

I think that is an old Armi San Marco from the erly 2000's.  They were the only ones who had frame mounted firing pins.  If not that, its a Gren, Millington, or Howell conversion.

[Coffinmaker]

Hi there Sackettboys   

What you have is an Armi San Marco (ASM) replicant of the First Model 1851 Navy Conversion.  ASM is now defunct.  Parts are NOT available, so due care must be taken with it.  That retractable/adjustable hardened striker was an attempt at import safety requirements.  It "sort of" worked.  I suggest a drop of Blue LocTite on the screw and DO NOT lose it.

The ASM .38 Conversions I had were with out doubt the most accurate .38s I have ever owned.  Unfortunately, ASM quality control went inna toilette.  A real shame.  If your example works as it should, you have a really fun Conversion.

[Coffinmaker]

I forgot.  The firing pin mounted in the Recoil Shield is a rebounding firing pin and often a light primer strike can be traced to a too heavy spring.  I replaced all of mine with sections of retractable ball pen springs.  If you remove the collar, spring and Firing Pin, be hugely careful not to lose or misplace 'em.

[Tuolumne Lawman]

I had two of the ASM 1860 Type I Richards in .44 Colt (only).  They were awesome shooters.  One was 100% reliable (It was the FAVORITE conversion I have ever had), but the other was a 4 shooter.  I had to sell it for parts.....

[Slamfire]

 I like " IT "  nice !!!!


  coffee's ready ,, Hootmix.

[Drydock]

I have one, an ASM 1860 Richards type 1, very early production, carefully preserved, .44 Colt, with a Colt bolt and cam in it.  Wonderful piece, probably never see it's like again.  Don't shoot it much anymore, but love the feel of it.

[Texas John Ringo]

I have 2 Armi San Marco (ASM) .38 Spl. First Model 1851 Navy Conversion's. Both shoot really well.

[sackettboys]

Thanks to all for the information and comments. I think it'll be my Sunday afternoon plinker.