Siler top jaw hammer question

[Russell420]

In filing the parting lines from the hammer and lock of my Siler large flint lock, I noticed a parting line behind the top jaw on the hammer, where the top jaw bears against the hammer. Without thinking, I filed this surface flat, and the rear of the top jaw no longer bears against the hammer. I think it should; otherwise, the jaw screw is going to be bearing the full force of the impact when the lock fires, instead of the hammer itself. Should I go ahead and order a new hammer? Thanks.

Russell420

 

[B.Habermehl]

Either don't sweat it, or bend the top of the hammer the 20 or 30 thousanths to close the gap. I have seen more hammer screws buggered up by dry firing locks with out flints than I have seen from any other cause.

 

[Russell420]

Thanks for the tip. I easily bent the top of the hammer and now there's no gap. I also discussed the issue with Jim Chambers and he advised that unless the gap was over 1/16 inch, the lock's function would probably not be adversely affected. Thanks again.

Russell420