32 DA Fourth Model Question

CT Smith Fan · #1 10-18-2010, 07:14 PM

I have a question about a 32 DA fourth model top break s/n 797xx. Should the barrel catch stop lug be spring loaded on this model? Right now the barrel catch has to be pushed down by hand to lock it in place. Also there is a single star after the serial number.(factory repair stamp?)The gun is blued steel and in like new condition overall.Thanks in advance for any help!

Dosgatos · #2 10-19-2010, 12:08 AM

Yes, there is a small "Barrel Catch Cam Spring" which no doubt is missing or broken. It is easy to replace by removing the screw in front of the Barrel Catch Cam.

CT Smith Fan · #3 10-20-2010, 09:16 PM

Thanks Peter,any idea about the star after the serial number?

Dosgatos · #4 10-21-2010, 09:37 PM

Like you said: factory repair.

CT Smith Fan · #5 10-22-2010, 12:11 PM

Thanks Again!

TACC1 · #6 10-24-2010, 03:10 AM

Would sure like to see a pic when you get time. Sounds like
a good find. TACC1

murphydog · #7 10-24-2010, 05:53 AM

The star was stamped so that a repaired gun could not be passed off as new afterward. Often (but not always) this meant a refinish; it could have been a mechanical repair too.

The S & W Historical Foundation is raising funds so this type of information can be organized from factory records, computer archived and made available to collectors; a worthy cause.

CT Smith Fan · #8 10-27-2010, 09:03 PM

The gun is my neighbor's,it was an estate sale find, I'll see if I can get a photo or two.