I need help in identifying the model of this .32 long revolver. A customer brought it in because the cylinder will not close properly. A casual examination showed that someone had replaced the yoke/crane with the wrong one. To even find the right part, I need to identify the model.

It is a six shot, chrome or nickel plated revolver with white grips. On the frame inside the yoke/crane are the numbers 742. The serial number(?) 12xx is stamped in the bottom strap of the frame and on the underneath side of the barrel where the ejector nests. It has 32 LONG CTG stamped on the left side of the barrel, and the registered trade mark of S&W on the right side plate. The side plate is held on with 4 screws.

The crane, which as the numbers 1212 stamped on it, and the ejector are not chromed

Attached Images

	S&W left.jpg (39.3 KB, 138 views)
	S&W Right.jpg (37.4 KB, 117 views)

Welcome to the Forum.

This is a .32 Hand Ejector Model of 1903 that dates to about 1903. Model numbers weren't assigned until 1957.

If those mother of pearl grips are real and have genuine S&W medallions, they are worth much more than the revolver itself. The hammer and trigger are supposed to be color casehardened.

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John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!

They are real, do have S&W medallions. Thanks for the help.

Welcome to the forum.

The 12XX is the serial #. The 742 is the factory assembly # and if it matches on both the yoke and in the yoke cut on the frame (also inside the side plate), it's the original yoke.

You can confirm that by checking the serial # on the rear face of the yoke by looking thru one chamber with a flashlight held over the front face of the cylinder.

First thing I would do is make sure the extractor rod is screwed in tight. Or unscrew the rod (right hand thread) and if the cylinder will close w/o the rod, the extractor rod is the issue. Make sure the yoke isn't bent. Check the rod and center pin to confirm they're not bent. You probably won't need any new parts, just needs proper fitting.

To confirm all parts are original, check for your 6 matching serial # locations for fixed sight pre war Hand Ejectors and all post war Hand Ejectors until ~1956.
NOTE: Observing serial #s for accuracy or even existence, especially on penciled stocks, requires magnification, bright light, and an attitude that it is there!

1. Gun butt - or forestrap on I frames/single shots with grips that cover the butt

2. Barrel - bottom of barrel or in extractor shroud

3. Yoke - on rear face only visible thru a chamber with a flashlight

4. Extractor star - backside

5. Cylinder - rear face

6. Right stock only - on back; stamped, scratched or penciled depending on vintage and stock material. (except most target grips because individual fitting not required.)

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Jim
S&WCA #819

"A casual examination showed that someone had replaced the yoke/crane with the wrong one."

Unusual but not unheard of. Check to see if the SN on the rear face of the yoke arm to see if it matches that of the frame (or not). How about the cylinder SN? Maybe the yoke is just sprung. That can be corrected.

Well, now we know what the smartly attired 1903 pimp was wearing. Gold plated hammer & trigger to match the medallions and nickel to match the white gold front tooth perhaps - derby, spats, ascot with marble sized pearl stick-pin to match the stocks. That is the "bees knees" in my book. I like it alot.

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Jeb

Also note the missing screw behind the trigger guard and probable refinish in nickel along with the gold plated hammer and trigger. Nice looking old 32.

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Some collect art; I shoot it!

Keep in mind that the yoke is a "fitted" part, it is not a drop in. The bright spot is these are reasonably common in rough condition, so a parts gun may be found, or try Numrich to see if they may have one.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Here we go with "pimp" again. Are they not "adult entertainment agents"?
They were just providing a service. Neat little gun and grips.

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Mike 2796
SoFo Bunch member