Old S&W .38 Lemon Squeezer Info

[JTP2872]

Hello... I'm looking for any information I can gather about a family firearm that was given to me by my late Grandfather several years ago. This .38 was carried daily by my Great-Grandfather throughout his life in the 20's-50's I do believe. My grandfather relayed stories that his Dad carried the gun in his bib-overalls and he never left home without it. Perhaps that's why the gun is so worn.

I'm just curious of any info I can get due to the early serial number on it. Does anyone have any information to trace an approximate age and/or value for this family relic? The serial number on the base of the grip is 191XX.S&WPic1.jpg

S&WPic2.jpg

Thanks,

Travis
Noblesville, IN

[thadheth]

According to the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson, 4th edition, your "lemon squeezer," also known as the Safety Hammerless with a serial number in the 19000's was produced sometime between 1887 and 1890, perhaps 1888 - but someone might come along with a more precise date. (It's an early one, since they started in 1887 and ended production around 1940.)

[thadheth]

P.S. As for value, I suspect your gun is worth perhaps $150-175, and is much more valuable as a family heirloom with a history of its wear.

[glowe]

Welcome to the Forum Travis. The proper name for your revolver is 38 Safety, Second Model that would have shipped most likely in 1888. There are a lot of people who look upon the term "Lemon Squeezer" as an insult to such a fine S&W model, but that is how they operated.

Yes, it is well used, but the metal is smooth and I bet it was well cared for. The 38 Safety started manufacture in 1887 and continued until 1940. Over a quarter-million were made and it takes 38 S&W ammunition. It is currently loaded by a few ammo manufacturers like Winchester and Remington. Made to shoot in these old top-break revolvers so the are lightly loaded. Still fun to shoot. As for value, any family heirloom should be priceless and passe down as your ancestors did to get the gun to you.

[SkipD1]

Originally Posted by glowe

Welcome to the Forum Travis. The proper name for your revolver is 32 Safety, Second Model that would have shipped most likely in 1888.

That pistol sure looks like a .38 to me and not a .32.

[glowe]

Originally Posted by SkipD1

That pistol sure looks like a .38 to me and not a .32.

Sorry, a slip of the fingers . . . second paragraph states 38.

[JTP2872]

Wow! You guys are truly a wealth of knowledge! Thank you so much for the investigation on my Great-Grandfather's sidearm. The value portion of my question was only out of curiosity, I'd never sell something that has such meaning. My Grandfather entrusted me with all of his firearms before he passed away, knowing that his collection would melt into mine and be well taken care of.

So with todays modern ammunition, would I have any concerns shooting the .38 if I can locate the correct ammunition? Everything feels solid and tight on the gun, no slop when it's closed. Thoughts?

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! You can shoot modern .38 S&W cartridges in that gun. Might be a little difficult to find at small gun stores. It's usually stocked at my nearby Academy Sports.

[JTP2872]

Great! I'll be sure to bring it along next trip to the range. Thanks!