[Remington74]

Super hard trigger pull on P-32 Gen 1

A few weeks ago I bought a used P-32 with the Crimson Trace laser sight. I used it a few times, maybe 50 rounds thru it to function test and then set up the targets for an informal accuracy test. During the first 50 rounds it seemed to function correctly, I didn't notice anything unusual.

The problem is that the trigger pull seems to be about right up until it is set to release the hammer. At that point it is like trying to pull an anvil off a table top. I actually have to release the trigger and try again and then, even though it is still very difficult at the end of the pull it will fire and actually hits exactly where the laser beam was indicating. Sometimes it has what I would consider a normal pull but then the next pull the problem is back.

I stripped it and cleaned/oiled all the moving parts in the trigger/hammer assembly. Put it back together and dry firing with snap caps seems the problem had been solved. Took it to the range yesterday and same problem.

What am I missing that could cause this issue and is a hard hammer release normal for this weapon?

I'm open to replacing any parts that need to be but would like to know what to look for and where to start.

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[TxCajun]

See if the trigger pin has backed out a little.

http://www.1bad69.com/KelTec/triggerpin.htm

 

[Remington74]

Thank you.

It was backed out a little bit, when I put pressure on it the pin went forward just a tad and dry fire not a problem so far. Thanks again. Anybody else have any ideas about what may be the problem?

 

[TxCajun]

Did pushing the pin in not solve the problem?

If it did, check the article I cited to lock it in place. Also, do not dry fire these pistols without a snap cap.

 

[PF9Newbie]

Thank you.

It was backed out a little bit, when I put pressure on it the pin went forward just a tad and dry fire not a problem so far. Thanks again. Anybody else have any ideas about what may be the problem?

It does not take much backing out of the pin to allow the trigger to slip on the axis, so that the back of trigger hits the frame before fully pushing the trigger/hammer bar back enough to release the hammer. This is just about the most common reason seen for issues like you have. Since it was slightly backed out, apply a little blue locktite, push it firmly down, let the locktite set, and then test. As noted, do not dry fire these kel tecs without a snap cap in place, as you will damage the firing pin and the screw tip that holds it in place.

 

[Remington74]

It seems that pushing the pin in did solve the problem as firing with snap caps seems flawless. The true trial by fire will be when I get to the range and do some live fire testing. With snap caps it worked smoothly for about 24 tries, prior to pushing the pin in it would not go that many without some sort of hiccup. Also, the trigger seems smoother now than before, could that be a benefit of having the pin pushed in?

Blue Loctite is on the list of items for tomorrows shopping at the hardware store.

Thanks to all for the tips and advice.

 

[TxCajun]

The trigger sounds normal now. It should be pretty smooth with maybe a 6 lb pull. Do apply the locktite. I think some have even used a drop of super glue although I've never had to use anything.