Seeking info: OLD S&Ws

[scbair]

Okay, I decided I have all the firearms I'll ever need for hunting, CCW, and target shooting. So, naturally, I was looking for something I just plain wanted! I found it . . . er . . . them. A pair of old top-break S&Ws in a wooden case (definitely NOT any type of factory or special cased set, though; appears to be a really old, wooden cigar box with red velvet lining ).

#1: 5-shot .38 S&W, blued finish, conventional S&W rubber grips,
serial # 321xxx; this one has a square-backed trigger guard.

#2: 5-shot .32 S&W, blued finish, serial # 251xxx; nothing distinguishing noted on this one.

Anyone have any info re: dates of manufacture? Other?

I just recently got interested in the old Smiths, and know very little about them.

Thanks, all!

 

[41 Redhawk]

The folks here should be able to help you. Be patient, it is a slow site.
http://www.smith-wessonforum.com/cgi-bin/sandwcgi/Ultimate.cgi?action=intro

 

[scbair]

Thanks, 41 Redhawk; I just registered, & will post my query there, too.

 

[Old Fuff]

scbair:

If you really want to know about any particular kind of firearm buy a good reference book that covers it. The book will pay for itself because you will occasionally use your new knowlwdge to buy something that is worth more then the asking price, or avoid buying something that's isn't worth what the seller wants.

In this case you should buy a copy of: "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson (2nd. Edition) by Jim Supica & Richard Nahas. You also might enjoy looking at Jim's website at: www.ArmchairGunShow.com

If you had purchased this book you'd know that the first revolver is a:

S&W .38 Double Action, 3rd. Model. These were made between 1884 through 1895, and your serial number indicates it was made toward the end of production, probably in 1894 or 95.

The second revolver is a:

S&W .32 Double Action, 4th model. These were made between 1883 through 1909 and the one you have probably dates from around the same time as the .38

A blue finish is a little unusual, as nickel plate was more popular on these models.

 

[scbair]

Thanks, Old Fuff.

Yep, I've been seeing references to the Supica book, and I guess I need to invest in a copy.

Appreciate the info!

 

[STORMIN29]

dates

Call the Smith factory and ask customer service. They can give a real close year date of manufacture. They have helped me several times and were pretty much right on with the dates that were stated in the letters received on each gun. Enjoy the Smith forum as they have alot of knowledge over there and a great bunch of people.