Hello All,
I've recently inherited a S&W revolver and need a little help identifying it. I'm not very experienced with older model SW's but I believe it is a 32 hand ejector Model 1903. Judging by the fact it has no model stamped into it, pre 1960's? Any info would be greatly appreciated, value is of little concern as I have no plans to sell but a ballpark number wouldn't hurt.

Here is what I know:

Serial Number: 64017
No Model number listed inside yoke (only factory assembly number)
Fixed Sights
Barrel is approximately 3.25"
Chambered in 32 Long
Has 5 screws on the frame
Contains a strain screw on the inside hand guard

Thanks for your help!

-GT

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Hi
Your Model of 1903 was made in about 1906 or 1907, so yes, it is a lot older than the 1960s.

Model numbered guns did not start shipping from the factory until 1958 - a half-century after your gun was made.

The barrel is the 3 1/4" variety. Quite common and a great length for carry.

The hammer spur is broken off on your example - too bad.

Opinion: those Pachmayr stocks look just awful on this fine old revolver. But maybe you like the way they feel, and that's okay too.

Here is what yours should look like (this one left the factory in about 1915 - it has the 4 1/4" barrel):

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Awesome thanks for the info, had no clue it would be that old.

Is it possible to replace the hammer? I just assumed this was a double action only revolver and the spur was shortened from the factory.

I see guys referring to these pistols as a Model of 1903 "2nd" Model & "X" Change. Any idea what model / change this one is?

I agree with the grips, they have to go. Will look for replacement ones soon, you'll notice the screw that is currently in it sticks out about 1/8th of an inch....

Some of us have a few issues with the "change" system, which was invented by collectors and does not reflect any factory terminology. But it can be useful and is probably here to stay.

Yours would be referred to as a Model 1903 Second Change, made in approximately 1906 and lasting until 1909. The rough serial range for this "change" is 51127 - 95500.

Regarding the hammer, check with Hondo44. He's our I frame expert.

I hope this helps.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Welcome to the forum.
I-frames are really fun. Some people become badly addicted to them.

Yes, you can replace the hammer yourself, if you have some mechanical inclination and read up a little, or have a gunsmith do it for you. No idea how much they would charge, but it isn't a difficult job. The most difficult part will be finding the correct hammer for this model. I don't think the I-frame hammers changed much over the years, but Jim (Hondo44) can tell you better what to look for. Sources for both hammer and grips would be the classifieds here on this forum, ebay, or Gun Parts Corp. (Numrich). There are a couple of places that made reproduction hard plastic grips as well.

Note that the hammer is made up of several parts, so the whole thing would be sold as a hammer assembly.

Just make sure you get the right ammo for it. .32 S&W Long, Not .32 H&R Magnum or .32 ACP. It may be hard to find on the shelf at the range but several ammo companies still make it.
Stick with mild factory loads and you should be OK.

Good advice.

I was in Sportsman's Warehouse a few days ago and they have a large stack of .32 S&W Long ammo (I believe it was Fiocci brand). So, it can be found.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Welcome to the Forum. You have a picture that really shows the effects of leaving rubber stocks on a gun. I hope the discoloration will clean up some. I believe the style of hammer you should be looking for can be found at gunpartscorp.com. There is a Model 1903 early hammer listed. I frame hard rubber stocks are often found on ebay as well, so if you want, it should not be too hard to put your 1907 32 HE back into original configuration. Good luck.

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Gary
SWCA 2515

Thanks for the advice. Going to give her a good clean and do some research....