Star BM extractor problem

max2005

Gents:

I have two Star BM 9mm pistols that I like very much. However, both have had reliability issues that I think are related to their extractors. I have had them "tightened" up, but now I'm not so sure that was the right thing to do, depending on how the extractor is suppose to engage in this model of pistol. Here's my question:

Is the Star BM extractor designed for the cartridge to slip under and behind the extractor claw during loading (mine don't), or is the extractor claw suppose to strike the head/rim area of the case, ride up and snap over the rim during the loading cycle? (mine seem to want to do this).

Anyone with experience with this model that could answer this question would be a life-saver here, as knowing how they are suppose to work is the first step in fixing them!

Thanks Gents!

rufe-snow

The only personal hands-on with a Star, is that I owned a PD years ago.It worked fine, other then the ugly recoil.

I believe that the Stars being near clones of the Brownings/Colts, are controlled feed like them. This means that as the slide goes forward into battery, it pushes the rim of the cartridge forward. As the cartridge moves forward and up the feed ramp. It's rim raises between the rear face of the extractor and front of slide.

Because of this design the extractor or extractor spring can't be constrained. Their has to be enough clearance and movement so that the rim of the cartridge can easily move upward between the extractor and slide.

Mobuck

I have 2 of the BM models and am fairly sure Rufe is correct about the feeding cycle. My opinion is this design should never be single fed into the chamber but always fed from the magazine.
FWIW, My BM's are dandy but I've found they feed the more rounded profile HP (Remington for example)better than the more square nosed profiles. Also, the mag may not handle slightly longer than normal ammo.

StoneChimneyTrading

Yes, that is correct. Too much extractor tension will cause the cartridge to not feed up completely onto the breechface. Too little extractor tension can cause cases not to eject well. A little judicious stoning of the extractor hook and a good polish on the feed ramp is usually all that is required on the Star BM, however ammunition with completely square, short bullets may forever be a problem.

MIKE WISKEY

I have one in hand now, the extractor is like a Browning h.p., controled round feed.......but will also 'snap' over a chambered round (it 'should' work both ways). during normal fuctioning it 'should' be c.r.f. Bullet profile and cartridge lenght are important.

max2005

Thank you so much for your insights! I pulled out my Hi-Power and carefully watched how that worked - you are right, by the time the cartridge is moving forward into the chamber, it should already be in the grasp of the extractor, holding it against the breach-face! None of my Stars are doing this and I'm certain this is the root of my problem!

Now if only I could find a gunsmith in my area (Sacramento) who understands how to really work on 1911 type extractors!?!?!

Thanks again Gents!

Hawk Carse

The Star is controlled feed as described, but does not work anything like a 1911, being external with pivot pin and spring.

TRAP55

Gary Thiry
3530 Auburn Blvd Ste 8
Sacramento, CA 95821
(916) 334-2512

rufe-snow

In your original post you note that you have had the BM's, "Tightened UP". IMHO, the gunsmith who worked on them. Replaced the factory extractor springs, with ones with much heavier tension. This schematic from GPC shows a similar Star pistol. With the extractor spring as #13. Before spending big bucks at a gunsmith I would remove the extractor from the slide. Make sure that it moves freely and doesn't bind. Also replace the extractor springs with those with lighter tension.