[saville]

Can anyone tell me about a what looks to be a chromed,.32 short, breaktop revolver with the markng of Thames Co Norwich CT, pat. Sept 2 and 30 1902? No serial # It looks a lot like a Smith & Wesson.
VR
Saville

[jacobtowne]

Thames Arms Co., Norwich, thrived latter part of the 19th Century. They made .22, .32, and .38 top-break revolvers usually stamped "Automatic," referring to the automatic ejector.
JT

[saville]

Thanks,
I would assume they are close to Sat nite specials with not a lot of value?

[gunfan]

Thanks,
I would assume they are close to Sat nite specials with not a lot of value?

Not really. While they were't very strong, with light factory loads they can be a great deal of fun. Modern .32 S&W loadings from both Remington and Winchester are light enough to shoot safely. However, you should have the revolver inspected by a gunsmith before shooting it. Some of these revolvers were fragile and tended to "fly open" even when new. If a qualified gunsmith says it is safe, respect the little revolver and enjoy it for what it is a "blast from the past"! :)

Scott

[Jim K]

Remember, though, that "they don't make 'em any more" and that parts will not be available. Further, most gunsmiths won't touch those old guns because they are too difficult to work on and repairs usually cost far more than the gun is worth.

Jim