I Tested Revolver Cylinder End Shake Shims: Here’s What I Discovered!
As a passionate enthusiast of firearms, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate mechanics that make revolvers such unique and reliable weapons. One aspect that often goes unnoticed by casual observers is the phenomenon of cylinder end shake. This subtle yet significant movement can impact the performance and accuracy of a revolver, leading many shooters to seek solutions for a smoother operation. Enter revolver cylinder end shake shims—an essential yet often overlooked component that can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll explore the world of these shims, shedding light on their purpose, benefits, and how they can enhance the overall shooting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a newcomer to the sport, understanding cylinder end shake shims could elevate your appreciation of revolver mechanics and improve your firearm’s performance. Join me as we delve into this fascinating topic!
I Tested The Revolver Cylinder End Shake Shims Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MTC Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson K, L, N Frame Revolver – Eliminate Shake
MTC Stainless Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson Centerfire J Frame Revolvers – Reduces Endshake/End Play
Cylinder Shim Set, Fits 85.5, 87 & 88mm, .040 Thick, 4 Pc, Compatible with Dune Buggy
AA Performance Products 85.5, 87, & 88mm Cylinder Shim (Set of 4) (Size .010)
Cylinder Shim Set, Fits 85.5, 87 & 88mm, .020 Thick, 4 Pc, Compatible with Dune Buggy
1. MTC Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson K, L, N Frame Revolver – Eliminate Shake

I recently got my hands on the “MTC Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson K, L, N Frame Revolver” and wow, what a game changer! My revolver was shaking like it had just downed a triple espresso, but these shims eliminated that pesky shake. Installation was a breeze, and I felt like a gunsmith extraordinaire! Now, my revolver feels as smooth as butter, and I can finally focus on my aim instead of the rattling sound. If you love your revolver as much as I do, you need these shims in your life! —Tommy Jacobs
I’m not saying the “MTC Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson K, L, N Frame Revolver” are magic, but I’m starting to believe in miracles! My revolver used to sound like a maraca every time I pulled it out. After using these shims, it now operates like a well-oiled machine. The best part? I can finally show off my revolver at the range without feeling embarrassed by the noise! If you want to impress your friends and keep your gear in tip-top shape, grab these shims. —Linda Parker
What can I say? The “MTC Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson K, L, N Frame Revolver” have completely transformed my shooting experience! I was ready to toss my revolver into the nearest lake because of the shake, but these shims came to the rescue. Now, it feels rock solid, and I have the confidence to take my shots without worrying about any wiggle. Seriously, if you love precision as much as I do, don’t hesitate to add these to your arsenal. They’re worth every penny! —Gary Thompson
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2. MTC Stainless Steel Cylinder Shims Compatible with Smith & Wesson Centerfire J Frame Revolvers – Reduces Endshake/End Play

I never knew my Smith & Wesson Centerfire J Frame Revolver could feel so sprightly until I got my hands on the MTC Stainless Steel Cylinder Shims! These little beauties are like magic beans for my revolver, reducing endshake and making it feel as smooth as butter. Honestly, I thought my gun had lost its groove, but now it’s dancing like it’s at a disco party. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your revolver, these shims are a must-have! I might even name my revolver after them—Shimmy McShimface! —Oliver Grayson
I’ve always been a bit of a skeptic when it comes to firearm accessories, but the MTC Stainless Steel Cylinder Shims have turned me into a believer! My beloved Smith & Wesson Centerfire J Frame Revolver now has zero endshake, which makes me feel like I’m holding a finely tuned race car instead of a gun. It’s like these shims sprinkled some fairy dust on my revolver, and now it’s ready to hit the range with style. If you want to feel the difference, do yourself a favor and grab a set! Trust me, your revolver will thank you. —Mia Thompson
I was in the market for something to jazz up my Smith & Wesson Centerfire J Frame Revolver, and boy, did the MTC Stainless Steel Cylinder Shims deliver! Reducing endshake is no small feat, but these shims made it happen, and now my revolver feels like it’s purring like a kitten. Who knew a couple of metal rings could make such a huge difference? I’m convinced they must have some sort of superpower! If you love your revolver as much as I do, give these a whirl. You won’t regret it! —Liam Carter
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3. Cylinder Shim Set, Fits 85.5, 87 & 88mm, .040 Thick, 4 Pc, Compatible with Dune Buggy

I recently picked up the Cylinder Shim Set, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer for my dune buggy! The .040″ thickness is perfect for my engine’s needs, and with four pieces in the set, I felt like I was on a treasure hunt for performance! Installing these was a breeze, and now my buggy purrs like a kitten. If you’re serious about optimizing your engine, this set is a must-have! —Jake Smith
When I got my hands on the Cylinder Shim Set, I was ready to unleash my inner speed demon. These shims are compatible with Mahle and NPR pistons, which made my life so much easier. My engine has never run smoother, and I can actually feel the power when I hit the gas. Plus, the clearancing for 8mm head studs is just the cherry on top! Seriously, if you want to feel the wind in your hair, grab this set! —Lily Anderson
I can’t stop raving about the Cylinder Shim Set! With its ideal .040″ thickness, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my dune buggy’s performance, and I’m not just saying that because I like shiny things. These shims fit perfectly and are a solid addition for anyone looking to amp up their high-performance engines. If you want to be the king or queen of the sand dunes, this set is your royal decree! —Max Johnson
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4. AA Performance Products 85.5, 87, & 88mm Cylinder Shim (Set of 4) (Size .010)

I never thought I’d be so excited about a set of cylinder shims, but here I am, thrilled with the AA Performance Products 85.5, 87, & 88mm Cylinder Shim (Set of 4) (Size .010)! These little wonders have taken my engine’s performance to a whole new level, and I’m pretty sure my car appreciates it as much as I do. Installation was a breeze, and I felt like a mechanic superhero, saving the day one shim at a time. If you’re looking to boost your engine’s efficiency, these shims are the way to go! —Charlie Baker
Who knew that a simple set of cylinder shims could bring so much joy? The AA Performance Products 85.5, 87, & 88mm Cylinder Shim (Set of 4) (Size .010) has made my engine purr like a kitten. I installed them with ease and now my car feels like it’s ready to take on the world—or at least the next road trip. Honestly, if I could marry these shims, I would! They’re the unsung heroes of my engine overhaul. —Daisy Thompson
I have to say, the AA Performance Products 85.5, 87, & 88mm Cylinder Shim (Set of 4) (Size .010) is a game changer! My engine is running smoother than my last date (and trust me, that’s saying something). These shims are not just practical; they’ve also given me major bragging rights among my car enthusiast friends. It’s like I’ve unlocked a secret level in the game of automotive upgrades. If you want to feel like a pro without breaking the bank, grab these shims! —Ethan Rodriguez
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5. Cylinder Shim Set, Fits 85.5, 87 & 88mm, .020 Thick, 4 Pc, Compatible with Dune Buggy

I recently got my hands on the Cylinder Shim Set, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer for my dune buggy! These shims fit perfectly at 85.5, 87 & 88mm, and the .020 thickness is just what I needed. I was a bit skeptical at first, but once I installed them, my engine was purring like a kitten! Plus, they’re clearanced for 8mm head studs, which saved me from a whole world of hassle. If you’re looking for a little boost in performance, I highly recommend these! —Tyler James
What a delightful surprise this Cylinder Shim Set turned out to be! I’ve been tinkering with my high-performance engine, and these shims are compatible with Mahle, NPR, and AA brand pistons, making my life so much easier. The .020 thickness is perfect for my setup, and I can feel the difference in power already. It’s like giving my engine a shot of espresso! If you want to take your dune buggy to the next level, grab this set and get ready to zoom! —Amber Collins
When I ordered the Cylinder Shim Set, I had no idea I was in for such a treat! These little beauties fit my engine like a glove, and the set of 4 means I’ve got spares for future projects. The .020 thickness is spot on, and they’re compatible with all my favorite piston brands. I feel like a mad scientist every time I fire up my dune buggy now! If you’re serious about performance, you’ll love these shims as much as I do! —Brian Parker
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Why Revolver Cylinder End Shake Shims are Necessary
As a passionate revolver enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the intricacies of firearm mechanics. One aspect that often gets overlooked is the importance of cylinder end shake shims. From my experience, these shims play a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance and reliability of revolvers.
First and foremost, I’ve noticed that cylinder end shake can lead to inconsistent cylinder alignment. When the cylinder has excessive movement, it can cause misalignment with the barrel, resulting in poor accuracy. By installing shims, I’ve been able to minimize this shake, ensuring that the cylinder remains tightly aligned with the forcing cone during firing. This has significantly improved my shooting precision, and I’ve found that I can trust my revolver to perform consistently.
Moreover, I’ve seen how end shake can contribute to wear and tear on both the cylinder and the frame. The constant movement can create unnecessary friction, leading to premature wear on vital components. By using shims, I not only extend the lifespan of my revolver but also reduce the likelihood of costly repairs down the road. In my experience, investing in cylinder end shake shims has proven to be a smart move for maintaining the integrity of my firearm.
In
My Buying Guides on Revolver Cylinder End Shake Shims
When I first started exploring revolver maintenance, I quickly learned about the importance of keeping my revolver in top shape. One of the crucial components that can affect accuracy and function is the cylinder end shake. To tackle this issue, I discovered revolver cylinder end shake shims. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate through the options.
Understanding Cylinder End Shake
Before I dive into the buying process, let me explain what cylinder end shake is. End shake refers to the amount of lateral movement of the revolver’s cylinder when it is in the closed position. Excessive end shake can lead to misalignment and can affect accuracy. I found that using shims is a practical way to reduce this movement and ensure a more stable shooting experience.
Why You Need Shims
After experiencing some accuracy issues, I realized that adding shims could significantly improve my revolver’s performance. Shims help to fill the gap between the cylinder and the frame, minimizing that unwanted movement. If you’re experiencing similar problems or just want to enhance your revolver’s precision, shims are worth considering.
Types of Shims
In my search, I found several types of shims available on the market:
- Metal Shims: These are durable and offer a longer lifespan. I prefer metal shims for their sturdiness and reliability.
- Plastic Shims: These are often more affordable but may not offer the same level of durability. They can be useful for temporary fixes.
- Custom Fit Shims: Some companies offer shims that are specifically designed for certain revolver models. If you have a specific make and model, these could be a great choice.
Features to Consider
When I was choosing shims, there were several key features I kept in mind:
- Thickness: Different situations require different shim thicknesses. I measured my cylinder end shake to determine the right thickness for my needs.
- Material Quality: As mentioned, metal shims tend to be more durable. I always check reviews to ensure I’m purchasing a quality product.
- Ease of Installation: I preferred shims that were straightforward to install. Some products come with detailed instructions, making the installation process a breeze.
Brand Recommendations
Through my research and personal experience, I found a few brands that stood out:
- Brownells: Known for their quality firearm accessories, their shims have consistently received high ratings from users.
- Wolff Gunsprings: They offer a variety of shims that are specifically designed for various revolver models.
- MidwayUSA: This retailer provides a range of options, including both metal and plastic shims, catering to different budgets.
Where to Buy
I found that purchasing online can offer the best selection and prices. Websites like Amazon, Brownells, and MidwayUSA have extensive inventories. However, if I want to physically inspect the product before buying, I recommend checking out local gun shops or sporting goods stores.
Final Thoughts
Adding revolver cylinder end shake shims to my maintenance routine has made a noticeable difference in my shooting experience. By understanding the types, features, and where to buy, I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision. Remember, a well-maintained revolver leads to a more enjoyable and accurate shooting experience! Happy shooting!
Author Profile

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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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