Hello all:

I bought a 38 Special pre-Model 10 Hand Eject from a pawn shop recently. One of the best deals I have ever make on one of the best "shooters" that I own.

They have a 32 caliber (s & w) I think, top break, "lemon squeezer" for a what I think is a not so good price?

What I need to know is this:

1. All you can possibly tell me about the weapon.

2. What to look for in the purchase?

3. What is a decent price? I will give a fair market price but do not want to be gouged.

They are asking $279 if I remember correctly.

Feedback of all kinds welcome please.

Thanks ahead of time.

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"That is all!"

The Main Menu here shows the various categories-
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The subtitles explain which guns go where.

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Regards,
Lee Jarrett

If it is a break top it will be a 32 S&W caliber. A very underpowered round. Think a 75 gr bullet going maybe 600 fps. It all depends on what you intend to do with it. If it is a very clean and you want it for a collection or display, that is a decent buy. If it has lots of wear it isn't so great a price. If you want to actually shoot it, be prepared to spend lots of time just trying to find ammo, and when you find it it will be very expensive.

As the gun could be from 90 to over 130 years old, parts are not easy to find if you break anything. If you are thinking of it for a self defense gun, please get something else. I am not trying to discourage you, as the picture shows, I like them (as collectors items) I don't shoot them.

This is a 2nd model, called a Bicycle gun.


This is a 1st. 2nd, & 3rd model Safety Hammerless.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Just to fill in the story a little more, the .32 SH was made in three different models, and sold from 1888 until 1937. A little fewer than 250,000 were made (all three models) over that time period. I wouldn't touch one unless it was in exceptional collectible condition or had a giveaway price.

I'm in love with mine. It's not unlikely that i'll buy another.

Would love it if S&W made these in a more modern caliber like the 17 hmr or something like that.

You did not mention the condition or the serial number. These revolvers go from $150 to $500. Antique 32 Safeties go for more than C&Rs, but not much difference in most auctions I watch. Value is all about condition. The price you quoted would be good for a 90% or higher original finish, but if the finish is worn, that is too much to pay.

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Gary
SWCA 2515