I've got a used Smith and Wesson Model 10-5 off of Gunbroker from around 1969. The finish is badly worn in places but the internals are sweet! Feels like almost new on the inside. Considering that it's a used revolver, I'm doing my best to cover all my bases regarding its condition in all aspects.
I've attempted to get the sideplate off to replace the lubricant in the hammer and other internals but it's fast shut. The screws come out just fine, including the main-spring. I've noted this small spot of rust on the border between the side plate and the frame itself. Could this be the culprit of the sticky sideplate?
http://castboolits.gunloads.com/atta...4&d=1600459173
I've tried firm blows with a silicone padded screwdriver grip, but the plates holds fast.
As I've been putting larger amounts of lubricant into accessible parts of the internals. When I dry-fire with snap caps, lubricant leaks out of the side plate towards the cylinder and nearby the yoke screw, and carries out a sizable amount of gunk with it that I wipe off with a swab pad.
I'd rather take this issue to a gunsmith, and I do NOT want to attempt to pry this off with a screwdriver obviously.
Is there any way I can upload larger attachments that can fit in for more details? I'm just glad my sideplate image managed to get here.