Let’s Talk About TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory
Rimfire firearms, while incredibly fun and relatively inexpensive to shoot, can sometimes suffer from reliability issues. One common culprit is the firing pin, which can become worn, damaged, or even break, leading to frustrating malfunctions. That’s why the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory caught my eye – a seemingly simple part promising a significant boost in reliability for a popular .22 pistol.
I’ve spent years tinkering with firearms, always looking for ways to improve their performance and dependability, especially in the rimfire world. When I started experiencing occasional light strikes with my SW22 Victory, I knew it was time to investigate a firing pin upgrade. The TANDEMKROSS name is well-regarded in the rimfire community, known for producing quality aftermarket parts, and that reputation, combined with the affordable price of $19.92, made this a worthwhile gamble.
Upon receiving the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, I was immediately impressed by its appearance. The black finish was clean and even, and the pin felt substantial, suggesting a robust build. Comparing it to the factory firing pin, the TANDEMKROSS part felt noticeably more solid.
I was also considering Volquartsen’s firing pin, which is another popular choice for the SW22 Victory, but the TANDEMKROSS pin’s price point and claims of high durability swayed me. While Volquartsen parts are known for their quality, the TANDEMKROSS option offered a potentially similar benefit at a more accessible price. My goal was to improve reliability without breaking the bank, and the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin seemed to offer the best balance of performance and value.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, as even the best-looking part can fail to deliver on its promises. I was eager to get to the range and see if the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin truly lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for early spring: slightly damp and around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. I brought a selection of .22 LR ammunition, including CCI Mini-Mags, Federal AutoMatch, and some bulk-pack Remington Golden Bullets, known for their inconsistent performance.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and no specialized tools. The TANDEMKROSS pin dropped right in, and the pistol reassembled without a hitch. From the first magazine, I noticed a difference. The primer strikes appeared deeper and more consistent, even with the notoriously unreliable Remington ammunition. I fired about 200 rounds through the pistol that day, and I experienced zero malfunctions – a notable improvement over the occasional light strikes I had been experiencing previously.
The improved performance gave me confidence, but I knew that a single range trip wasn’t enough to fully evaluate the product. Would the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin continue to perform well under more demanding conditions?
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. I’ve put approximately 2000 rounds through my SW22 Victory since installing the new firing pin, and I have yet to experience a single light strike or failure to fire. This is a remarkable improvement, especially considering the variety of ammunition I’ve used.
I’ve also shot the pistol in a variety of conditions, including hot and dusty summer days and cold, damp fall afternoons. The TANDEMKROSS pin has performed flawlessly in all environments. I haven’t noticed any signs of wear or deformation on the firing pin itself, indicating the hardened tool steel construction is holding up well.
Maintenance is simple: I clean the firing pin channel every few hundred rounds as part of my regular firearm maintenance routine. The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin itself requires no special care. Compared to my previous experiences with other rimfire firearms, the improved reliability offered by this firing pin is a significant advantage. I no longer have to worry about clearing malfunctions during matches or plinking sessions, allowing me to focus on enjoying my time at the range.
Breaking Down the Features of TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory
Specifications
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin is specifically designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory firing pin in the Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory pistol. It is constructed from hardened tool steel, offering increased durability and resistance to wear compared to the original part. The pin has a black finish, likely a protective coating to further enhance its corrosion resistance.
The SW22 Victory is a .22 LR pistol, so this firing pin is designed to reliably ignite .22 LR cartridges. The improved material and design of the TANDEMKROSS firing pin ensure consistent and reliable primer strikes, which is critical for reliable cycling and accuracy. The TANDEMKROSS pin weighs approximately the same as the factory firing pin, ensuring that it does not negatively impact the pistol’s balance or function.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin is to improve the reliability of the SW22 Victory by providing consistent and forceful primer strikes. In my testing, it has performed admirably, eliminating light strikes and significantly reducing malfunctions. This enhanced reliability directly translates to improved accuracy and enjoyment at the range.
The pin’s only weakness is that it doesn’t magically fix issues outside of firing pin strikes. If the ammunition is faulty, the magazine is worn, or other extraction issues are present, this pin won’t fix the entire gun. Despite this, the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin exceeded my expectations, providing a noticeable and consistent improvement in performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin is a simple, yet well-designed part. The hardened tool steel construction feels robust and durable, and the black finish is clean and professional. Because it is a drop-in replacement, it does not alter the ergonomics of the pistol.
There is no learning curve associated with the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, as it installs easily and functions identically to the original firing pin. The improved reliability and peace of mind are significant ergonomic benefits, as they reduce frustration and allow the shooter to focus on marksmanship.
Durability & Maintenance
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin’s hardened tool steel construction ensures excellent durability and a long service life. After thousands of rounds, I have not observed any signs of wear or deformation. With proper maintenance, the TANDEMKROSS firing pin should last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only periodic cleaning of the firing pin channel. The firing pin itself does not require any special lubrication or treatment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin is a standalone replacement part and does not require any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with all other aftermarket parts and accessories designed for the SW22 Victory. Upgrading the firing pin can be paired with other upgrades, such as a new extractor or trigger, to further enhance the pistol’s performance.
Pros and Cons of TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory
Pros
- Significantly improves reliability by eliminating light strikes.
- Durable hardened tool steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy drop-in installation requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing.
- Affordable price provides excellent value for the performance gains.
- Compatible with all SW22 Victory models.
Cons
- Does not address malfunctions caused by other issues (e.g., faulty ammunition, magazines).
- May not be necessary for SW22 Victory pistols that already exhibit perfect reliability.
Who Should Buy TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory?
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin is perfect for SW22 Victory owners who have experienced light strikes or other reliability issues with their pistol. It is also a worthwhile upgrade for competitive shooters or anyone who values consistent performance and dependability.
If your SW22 Victory is already perfectly reliable, you may not need this upgrade. The cost is minimal, but it is still an unnecessary expense if your current firing pin is performing flawlessly. While it adds some reliability, users who don’t clean their firearms regularly may still experience issues.
Must-have accessories to pair with the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin include a high-quality bore brush and cleaning solvent for maintaining the firing pin channel.
Conclusion on TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory
The TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin, SW22 Victory is an exceptional upgrade for anyone seeking to improve the reliability of their SW22 Victory pistol. Its hardened tool steel construction, easy installation, and affordable price make it a no-brainer for those experiencing light strikes or seeking enhanced performance.
At $19.92, the price is easily justified by the significant improvement in reliability and the peace of mind it provides. I would wholeheartedly recommend the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin to any SW22 Victory owner looking to elevate their pistol’s performance.
Don’t let a faulty firing pin ruin your range day. Upgrade to the TANDEMKROSS Fire Starter Firing Pin and experience the difference! You’ll thank yourself for it.