Went to my first Steel Challenge at the Pioneer Sportsman's Club last Saturday. I was watching a guy approach the line with a new PA 22. As he took his first shot, the slide dropped off the pistol and landed at his feet in the sand. We all gathered around to inspect the damage. The slide broke cleanly, straight across, just behind the front sight. The portion with the front sight was still sitting on the rail. He was not using hot ammo and there was no other apparent cause that would explain it. He was going to take pictures, post them online (not sure where) and notify S&W.
Since it was a .22, and not a magnum center-fire, I'm guessing metallurgical flaw in the slide. Sorry, I don't have any pictures.
Since it was a .22, and not a magnum center-fire, I'm guessing metallurgical flaw in the slide. Sorry, I don't have any pictures.