hammer doesn't stay cocked

[nekshot]

A friend asked me to look at his beloved 22 handgun. It is a cute I. J. Champion, break top 22 Target S.A. handgun. 9 shot, 6 inch barrel (Iver Johnson). I don't get thrilled doing these type of favors but he insists I look at it! Any foreboding warnings or advice before I dive into this thing?

[scattershot]

Sounds like it’s either worn out or Bubba has been playing with it. In either case, I think a professional gunsmith is called for. If the original sear was case hardened, it may need to be re hardened to work properly.

[TNsailorman]

I have repaired a couple of these in the past. The case hardening on them is fairly thin and once worn thru will wear fast to the point the part may be too worn to reharden and work correctly. I bought new or used parts from Numrich and replaced them. james

[RED BEAR]

+1 for numrich they carry a lot of parts for the old break tops most are pretty simple inside.