[carguychris]

I don't have a Model 61, but I'll make some general suggestions.

Does the gun have a spring-loaded hook-style extractor? If so, check whether it's clean and moves freely. On a .22, most failures to extract are caused by excessive powder buildup under the extractor. In some cases, so much powder builds up that the extractor become jammed partially open, preventing it from grabbing the case rim effectively.

If there is excessive powder fouling under the extractor, apply some powder solvent with a Q-tip, wait 10-15 minutes, then pick it out with a toothpick or a dental pick. If the fouling is really bad, repeat applications of solvent may be required.

On most .22's, the extractor should pivot with moderate but not excessive fingernail pressure. If it won't move, apply some penetrating oil and wait a few hours; DON'T try to force it. If repeat applications of oil don't work, you may want to take it to a gunsmith or call S&W; many extractors are tricky to remove and reinstall.

Another possibility is a missing, loose, or damaged ejector. On most autoloaders, this is a small pointed metal piece that projects from a slot in the breech as the slide is drawn to the rear; as the extractor pulls the case to the rear, the case contacts the ejector and is kicked out of the ejection port.