I'd like to add a top break revolver to my "collection" of S&Ws (revolvers from 1905 to present day; semi's in 9 and .45 from 39-2 to Shields)

I can't afford real collectors' pieces, so I focus on shooters in decent shape, but representative of their type.

So I'd like to ask for some suggestions so I can look for a top break S&W; that's still safely shootable with modern ammo; and that won't set me back a grand...about half that is what I can afford.

Clearly .38 special would be nice, but I doubt they come in that flavor. So .38 S&W or a variety of .32 or ???

I'm going to curl up with the Standard Catalog and reread the pertinent chapters....but I thought I'd ask here for practical advice. You guys were a huge help when I started adding revolvers to my accumulation and have always come through on pistols as well...so here goes.

I would favor the 32 over the 38 s&w, although ammo for both is sometimes a challenge, but I can always find it in stores or online, just buy a couple boxes when you see it at a decent price.

The 32 safety hammerless are plentiful and good ones can be had at decent prices.

Also, the 38 DA is another where there are lots of them out there and decent ones don't break the bank....I shoot almost all of mine...have fun.

Robert

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Robert
SWCA #2906, SWHF #760

Sort of the ultimate top break would be the perfected model which was S&W last top break, but also had left side push button release. I have seen a couple decent shooters go for under $500 recently (.38S&W only). Personally I like the Singe Action top break available in either .38S&W or .32S&W centerfire. A very nice one can be had under $500 and they are less prone to parts breakage as well as much easier to work on if something does break.

The Single Action .38 topbreak would be my choice to. I do own one and it shoots great. It is a very accurate revolver.

Put me down as another vote for a single action. To me, they are much more representative of S&W than the double actions.

It seems like my first reaction to seeing a top-break double action is it's a foreign copy. Perhaps that's because they are all so staggeringly ugly----clunky, if you prefer. (And having said that, the Perfected model is a decided exception.)

Ralph Tremaine

Hello Ralph, not to interfere, but agree whole heartily.
The Perfected model was an engineering success. Mike

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Mike 2796
SoFo Bunch member

This one was pretty cheap. From around 1905. I paid $200 because of the MOP grips that are perfect and now reside on another Smith. It's a 38 and fun to shoot. An excellent gun for a woman too. . .no recoil, no muzzle blast, no earplugs needed. I think Teddy Roosevelt had one just like it but his was engraved. A lot of history in these guns.

Attached Images

SH 4th 1905 Pic 1.jpg (79.4 KB, 47 views)

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Dr. B

A Perfected model is my choice also...
https://s33.postimg.cc/mivfdf9rz/38_S_W_001.jpg

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Only difference Fool/Mule-ears

These old guns aren't too hard to find and show up at most decent sized gun shows. I've found a couple of .38's Double Actions for around $100 to $150. I've got 2 32's and neither of them function like they should. The 32's are very small guns and make even the smallest compact guns being made today look large. The downside is that the actions were fairly fragile.

For $500 you should be able to find a great example of a Double Action or a Hammerless model(aka Lemon squeezer). I'm not sure about the pricing on the Perfected models because honestly I've never seen one for sale. I'm guessing that $500 would be able to buy one but not in as good of condition.

Buyer beware when purchasing online. Some of these guns are pushing 150 years old and if anything is broken on them good luck finding replacement parts that are in useable condition. Most replacement parts are from guns sold as parts guns and in bad condition. Both the 32's I bought were sold as functioning guns but actually had severe problems.

The two bottom guns are .32 S&W Single Actions, and much fun to shoot.



The 3 Safety Hammerless represent from 1890 to 1921. Can often be found in relatively good condition at not too high a price..

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

If your collection is post 1905, purchase wisely! I would suggest this purchase should be pre '99. Everyone should have at least one ANTIQUE in their collection, no paperwork. Might come in handy someday.

In .32 cal I would look for a safety hammerless, as the .32 DA lockwork is pretty delicate and easy to get out of order.. As has been said, the .38 perfected is by far the best choice because it has the much improved lock work of the 1903 HE, and late ones even have a hammer block safety.

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Tom
1560

Many thanks to all...looking for either a Perfected or SA .38 as top choices with lemonsqueezer as the runner up.

Also, in terms of non-S&W, in case I come across one, what are the best bets for the others out there. I've read Eastern Arms (Sears) is a no go because of soft steel construction. Which of the others might make the grade in terms of doing a bit of shooting with them.

Again, many thanks for all the help.

Best bet for a non-S&W would be a Harrington and Richardson. The Automatic Ejecting Third model was made for smokeless powder and can be had in .32 (iong) or .38, generally for less money than an S&W. They are not scarce, but wait for one in very good condition. The newer model, called the "Premier" has a smaller frame and comes only in .22 and .32. The Premier has a better locking system for the cylinder than the Third Model has.