.32 s&w chief help

[kypatriot]

Hello,
I'm new at this thread thing, but you guys here seem to know what you're talking about.
My dad has a S&W model 31-1, .32 S&W long. Serial # starts H974..
It is nickel plated, barrell is about 1 1/4 inches long, square butt.
Really nice looking revolver and he's had it a long time.
Can anyone tell me anything about these guns- about how old, what's it worth. He's had several offers this week and not really sure he wants to part with it unless he gets a really good offer. A close friend told him it was rare.
Any and all help would be appreciated. Will supply more info if possible.
Thanks,
kypatriot

 

[kypatriot]

So no one knows anything about this gun?

 

[Radagast]

The H serial range H60000 to H99999 was used between 1972 & 1976.

Barrel length is measured from the forcing cone (in front of the cylinder) to the muzzle. From 1957 2, 3, 3.25, 4 & 4.25 inch barrels were standard. Full name is Model 31-1 .32 Regulation Police, the dash one markings mean it was made on the J frame rather than the smaler earlier I frame. the model 31 was discontinued in 1991. Blued and nickle finish were available, grips were checkered walnut.
In 2006 the Standard Catalog of S&W gave a value of $375 As new in box, $275 in excellent condition and $225 in very good condition.

Also check out online auction sites such as auctionarms,armsbid and gunsamerica to find out the current prices.

The small framed .32 S&Ws are not particularly rare, from the original .32 Hand Ejector in 1896 to the Regulation Police in 1991 they were manufactured for 91 years in one form or another, with the serial numbers ending at 826977.

 

[Guillermo]

So no one knows anything about this gun?

impatience is not a virtue

 

[rcmodel]

And it's not a Chief.

All Chief Specials were chambered for .38 Special only until recently, when the Model 60 was offered in .357 Magnum.

rc

 

[kypatriot]

Really appreciate the info and the time. Thanks radagast and rcmodel.