Hello, all. I'm brand new to this forum and to handgun ownership, and would really appreciate some help identifying the gun I bought today. After reading all afternoon on the Internet, I'm more confused than when I started.
What I have is a 32-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver, stamped on the butt with "E 8880." Barrel is 4" long, with "32 LONG CTG" stamped on the side, and the whole gun measures 8.25". It looks just like a 1954 Regulation Police I saw in a Smith & Wesson ad that's listed for sale on eBay. The problem is that serial number, plus the fact that the patent dates stamped on the barrel are 4May1881 and 12Apr1898. At least I think that's what they are - much of the lettering stamped into the gun is worn to the point that it's really hard to read.
The grips are very dark wood (almost black), cross-hatched, flat butt, and do not bear S&W emblems. Also I am pretty sure the gun is a Hand Ejector, from descriptions I've been able to find today.
Any idea of year of manufacture, or other specifics on this gun?
Many thanks,
Nessa
What I have is a 32-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver, stamped on the butt with "E 8880." Barrel is 4" long, with "32 LONG CTG" stamped on the side, and the whole gun measures 8.25". It looks just like a 1954 Regulation Police I saw in a Smith & Wesson ad that's listed for sale on eBay. The problem is that serial number, plus the fact that the patent dates stamped on the barrel are 4May1881 and 12Apr1898. At least I think that's what they are - much of the lettering stamped into the gun is worn to the point that it's really hard to read.
The grips are very dark wood (almost black), cross-hatched, flat butt, and do not bear S&W emblems. Also I am pretty sure the gun is a Hand Ejector, from descriptions I've been able to find today.
Any idea of year of manufacture, or other specifics on this gun?
Many thanks,
Nessa