I recently installed a hammer extension on my stainless Encore frame. I like it but I was curious as to whether or not it is harmful to the hammer. I see where TC does not recommend its use. Do any of you have any experience with hammer extensions? I really value everyone's knowledge and opinion.

Recoil

Adding a hammer extension increases lock time. Increased lock time usually equals larger groups.
The added mass will also increase the force applied through the firing pin, to the primer.

I don't see how any of this would cause much concern.

In my experience with the encore the steel hammer extension weakens the hammer spring quickly.I used one on my encore and after probally 15 rounds I started having primer misfires. There is a lot of info on this on bellm web site. He has suggestions and answers to these problems with encores.Hope this helps.

Much thanks to those who have replied so far! I have taken 24 shots to this point but that is not a long term test by any means. I do not want to harm my frame. I have been toying with the idea of purchasing an Encore pro hunter frame as I know that TC has designed the swing hammer with all of the negatice aspects factored in. I am most interested in the opinions of those who have had hammer extensions installed for a prolonged amount of time.

kwb is right Bellm has some interesting info at his site on this subject. Bellm makes a light weight hammer extender that keeps the stress off the hammer. Here is the link to it;

Bellm Hammer Extensions

I use high rings on all my Encores so I can cock the hammer and not have to use an extension. Some of the new Encores came with a hammer that could be swung to either side for easier cocking. I belive they will upgrade older frame with it. Give them a call and find out.

I also prefer to use high rings rather than a hammer extension for thumb room. This eliminates any worry about damage or lock time or whatever. Besides, those extensions are just plain buttugly!

When we do trigger jobs on Encores and the customer wants a hammer extension we either recommend a swing hammer or install a extra heavy hammer spring..we go to 1 - 1 1/2 lbs with no push off or misfires using one of the above two remedies..ElDee

The Contenders must be tougher than the Encores. I've been running them for most of 20 years and have yet to suffer any mishaps.

The hammer springs on Encores are really that weak/touchy?