These guys nailed it, dry firing a S&W 22LR revolver is indeed a no-no. They DO make 22LR "snap caps", but they're more for practicing loading/unloading, as the rims will get dinged up if you use them for dry fire practice. I'm trying to remember the size number, but I've used the plastic wall anchors for dry fire practice before. They don't last long, but they're super cheap. It's the yellow drywall anchors, and here it is, just found it from the S&W forum: Hillman 4-6-8x7/8". Yellow ribbed anchors should do it!Dry firing any .22lr can peen the edge of the chamber and the firing pin. It is generally a no-no. An empty case could be used as a cushion, but I don't like doing that for fear of thinking empty in the chamber and discovering it wasn't. Not sure if they make .22lr snap-caps.
No.....I have quite a few K frame .22's and it's just not a good idea.
Any effect to function or just cosmetics?
I normally dry fire as needed and then replace whatever small parts (firing pin / trigger return spring ? ) that break. But perhaps this is a bad idea with a 22 wheel gun. All I'm seeing from S&W though is that you might need to replace the firing pin or remove it ahead of time. Could be missing something if there is a reason why a firing pin swap on a rimfire is more of an issue than on a centerfire.
Q: Why can't I dry fire my .22 pistol or revolver?
A: Dry firing a S&W .22 pistol or revolver will cause damage to the firing pin.
Ok. But I am curious what it harms and why that can not be fixed cheap and easy.