Hi. I inherited this pistol from my Grandma, ( who has been deceased since 1972), so it has to be pretty old.
The serial number on the butt is: 314469. It's a 3-inch barrel, top-break, has 32 S & W CTG on the barrel, and has 3 screws(if I'm lookin at all of them. Has a strain screw in the front grip strap, and it has pearl-looking ( ivory?) grips.
I'm a novice and a girl, but I want to learn about firearms and shooting, so go easy on ribbing me. (CTG...I know I could leave that out.) this is my first post, but I love this site!
I will try to upload a photo, and was hoping you could identify my revolver.it has more sentimental value than anything else.just wondered how old it is.
Also, how do I clean it up a bit? Thanks!

I uploaded two photos of my 32, but I don't see them posted. I will learn as I go along, I suppose!

Welcome to the Forum. You probably have a .32 Double Action, 5th model made about 1918, and it has the exposed hammer. I'll wait for the photos to advise on best way to clean it. Ed.

I am assuming that it is a real S&W revolver? There were many other makers of .32 top breaks back in the day.

Hi,
Thanks for the reply. The 32 top-break revolver is definitely a Smith & Wesson...(or a fine imitation!) It has a round circle trademark S&W imprinted on the metal. Metal is silver-colored...would this be nickel, perhaps? this is what's on the barrel: (x 32 S. & W. CTG x). Has pearl or ivory grips and another S&W round, imbedded, copper- looking emblem on each side of the grips. 3-inch barrel, 3 screws(I think). Serial number on butt is 314469. It is at least 45 years old... Belonged to my grandma.
I'm new, so thanks for your patience.
PS. How do I get the photo I uploaded to show up with my posts?

Attached Images

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Well, surprise! The photo has arrived! Somebody please help. Just want a little info. on Grandma's gun...how old it is, and how to clean it. Thanks so much. I'm really liking this website!

You have a 32 Double Action 5th Model in original Nickel with factory pearl grips.
One of the latest 32 DA's made.
Production ended in 1919 at 327641, so yours would probably date to 1915-17.
Welcome aboard.

__________________
Regards,
Lee Jarrett

It seems to have been originally nickel plated (as opposed to being plated later in its life) as the trigger and trigger guard are not plated, which is correct. The hammer should also be unplated. Most of the old plated guns that have seen any significant use will show plating wear, as yours does. There are several metal polishes which might brighten it up a little. I won't recommend one, but others here may. They are probably all pretty much the same, as generally they are all mildly abrasive.

If you wish to shoot it, the proper ammunition is called .32 S&W, not .32 S&W Long and not .32-20. It's available but difficult to locate, as most gun shops will not carry it due to low demand, nor will Wal-Mart or the other big box chains. Hopefully you may have some ammunition already. Assuming the cylinder locks up properly, it should be safe to shoot using newly-manufactured ammunition.