Are these revolvers ok for smokeless powder cartridges?

Status
Not open for further replies.
C

clipse

Member
Joined
Sep 19, 2003
Messages
1,215
Location
missouri
The first is an Iver Johnson Top Break in .38 S&W. Serial # 294xx
It looks similar to this:
ij32ham.jpg



The second is a S&W top breaK (Lemon Squeezer) in .38S&W Serial #1502xx

It looks similar to this:
lemonSqueeze.jpeg


I am asking this for my father-in-law. If anyone needs anymore info let me know.

Thanks for the help.

clipse
 
I agree with Mike. Smokeless powder in handgun loads was introduced around 1898, and became common by the early 1900's. Today's .38 S&W loadings are very mild because of the possibility that they might be used in black-powder arms. However a S&W .38 Safety Hammerless revolver in the 150,000 serial number range should be O.K., if it is in good mechanical condition.
 
Have it checked by a smithy before you shoot it. Those IJ's were not made as high quality firearms. They were made to be sold cheaply and in great numbers. That's why you see all kinds of 'em around but none in good condition. They and the same kind of handgun made by other makers(H&A, H&R among others)were the original Saturday Night Special.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top