I've got an old top break F&W revolver dated 1896-1897 and would like to know whether it can handle the .32 S&W long. The cylinder is 32 mm in length (S&W long not including the rim, for obvious reasons, is approx. 31.1mm with a bullet). According to my math the revolver can at least chamber the .32 S&W long (although it will be close fit), but how do I know whether or not it was meant for the caliber? Not looking to actually shoot, just curious towards it's original caliber designation. How much space in front of a loaded chamber of a revolver is considered "safe", since I am dealing with a space less then 1mm.
My hunch tells me this is a .32 S&W short only gun, but S&W longs did become available in 1896. How many pistols at the time other then those made by S&W were chambered for .32 S&W long?
My hunch tells me this is a .32 S&W short only gun, but S&W longs did become available in 1896. How many pistols at the time other then those made by S&W were chambered for .32 S&W long?