American Arms Co 32 S&W LONG 6 Shot Revolver

[gspaay]

I am hoping that you can help me. I have a very old revolver that I need identified. . I am attaching some pictures for you to look at. Maybe you can figure this out. It is an American Arms CO Boston, MA U.S. top latch, 6shot, 32 S&W long, nickel plated, grips are rubber. There is no record of this gun being produced except for a law suit filed by S&W because of patent infringement involving the star auto ejection system. This gun as far as I can tell from my research so far, was made about 1867. It was introduced after the 32 short Top Latch 5 shot with the manual ring for unloading. I hope this info helps. I look forward to hearing from you.

 

[Radagast]

The .32 S&W cartridge was introduced in 1878 along with their first top break revolvers. The .32 S&W long cartridge was introduced in 1896 with their first swing out cylinder Hand Ejector revolvers. The .32 S&W long is a stretched version of the .32 S&W cartridge.

Fleyderman's guide to Antique American Firearms lists two American Arm's Co. top break revolvers, neither of which match yours exactly. The grips are a match on the first variant which was available in spur trigger single action (illustrated in the book) and in a double action variant as well. The cylinder however does not match.

Sorry I can't help you more.

 

[Jim Watson]

Zhuk says American Arms moved from Boston to Milwaukee in 1892, and lasted only until 1902. He illustrates only an odd concealed hammer selective DA-SA gun under the brand.

To make a revolver for .32 S&W Long, introduced in 1896, they must have been using existing parts or an existing roll die with Boston address, probably the latter.