Remington 51

[Danth]

Does anyone know which end of the sear lock lever points to the magazine: the end with the hole, or the end with the nob? Thanks, Dan

[SOFMatchstaff]

I believe the knob points to the rear, I'll check mine.

[Danth]

Still hoping someone will respond to the proper sear lock lever positioning.

[pietro]

.

Part #82 - the end with the hole goes forward.

[Danth]

Pietro, thanks much

[JHeath]

Btw the 51 is known for the breech block sometimes cracking. I am no expert on 51s. But when I examined my breech block, I noticed a sharp edge from manufacturing that looks like a potential crack starter. It's at the rear, on the inside opening, where the firing pin channel meets the vertical cut from below. It's a very small concave, or crescent, edge. It looks like the place a crack would start. The sharp edge is a "stress riser". I radiused the area gently, with a round file. I think that will protect the breech block from cracking. Even a small radius reduces a stress concentration by a lot.

I really liked my 51. Maybe the favorite gun I ever owned. Carried it a lot in an IWB holster. Had to sell it because we moved to British Columbia where short barreled pistols aren't welcome, and anyway the only muggers here are grizzlies and a can of bear spray is better than a concealed .380.