Went snooping in a "trading post", I had never been in before. The owner deals in rocks and some firearms. In one of his gun cases he has a .32 cal S&W Short 5 shot top break. Nickle with rubber grips, serial number 57xxx. It's on consignment and according to the consignee
the revolver was given to either his great grandmother or his grandmother by her husband on their wedding day and then as the story goes put into a sock drawer.

The plating looks almost flawless, very minor light scratches here and there. The bore is likewise shiny and bright as well as the cylinders. Extractor functions perfectly, as does the latch. Grips have no issues what so ever. Locks up nice and tight.

I know nothing about these types of revolvers. Can modern ammo still be shot in this revolver and is it commercially available? or hand load only? If I am reading the Blue Book correctly this revolver is a 32 double action 4th model. 1883-1909

He's asking $300 which includes an old old full box of ammo. Silver/blue box made by Union Metallic Cartridge Co.

I would buy this more as a curiosity and not something I would shoot hardly at all.

What say you all on price, possible DOB, and anything in particular I should look out for.

Pictures would help!

Exc+ Exc Fine VG Good
$525 325 250 200 175
Add 25% premium for 6-inch barrel
Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 4th Edition 2016

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Fred
S&WCA 3238

The ammo for this S&W .32 Double Action TopBreak is commercially available. Remington short 32 SW in 88 grain and Winchester short 32 in 85 grain.

I would say that with the ammo it is a "buy it now". How often are you going to find any older S&W in pristine condition. If it truly is unfired or nearly so, I would not hesitate to pay $300 for it. Of course I would offer $250 just because I always do but if he held firm at $300 with ammo included I would buy it.

I also wouldn't shoot the original ammo as it is probably worth $50 to $100 if in good shape.

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James Redfield
LM #497

About 5 years ago, I bought a .32 DA in 99% condition for $250 which I thought was a decent price for an old gun that well maintained. I'd be interested in your friend's gun especially with the ammo.

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Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629