Help to identify model of this 32

bamascv · #1 07-20-2017, 01:46 PM

I just acquired this nickel plated 32 but not sure model. I have searched and see attributes of it listed for several different models. Anyhow it is a double action, serial number 7xxxx on bottom of butt and underneath the barrell. However when the cylinder is opened there is a number inside 1xxxx, 4 screws on side. The top of barrel has several patent dates the last being 1914. I'll try to post pics and any help to narrow the model and info about it would be helpful.

Absalom · #2 07-20-2017, 02:46 PM

You have a S&W K-frame, a Model 1905 in .32-20, at the time labelled as .32 W.C.F. The serial places it in the mid-19-teens, likely 1914/15. The same number should be ON the cylinder face, but the number in the yoke area when you open the cylinder is an unrelated assembly number.

Everything on the gun including finish and stocks looks correct and original.

bamascv · #3 07-20-2017, 03:19 PM

Many thanks. I had guy large box retail gun shop tel me it was a 3rd model and somebody else said he thought a model 32 perhaps but neither were very confident. Anyhow, i know this is only an opinion but since so old is it shootable? It has a great fee to it and i bought to plink around with. Thanks again for info.

DWalt · #4 07-20-2017, 03:30 PM

It is in reasonable condition for its age. SN 7xxxx would put it as being from 1915-17. At that time S&W would have called it a .32-20 Military and Police model. Some would call it a Model of 1905 4th change. S&W stopped making .32-20 revolvers around 1929-30, but sold them out of inventory throughout the 1930s. They were not big sellers, with only about 144K made. You might check the serial number stamped under the barrel. If it has a "B" prefix, it may well have been plated after it left the factory. But it looks like the plating is original, as are the grips. If you have some metal polish, it won't hurt to shine it up and wax it. Despite the relatively small number of .32-20 M&Ps made, there is normally little scarcity value premium attached to them vs. the far more common M&Ps chambered in .38 Special. .32-20 ammo is a little difficult to find and expensive which does not make .32-20 revolvers popular among shooters.

bamascv · #5 07-20-2017, 03:50 PM

Great info and thanks for clarifying. I havent been to buy ammo yet for it and glad for info you and Absalom have provided as now know type ammo to buy....i almost bought a box of 32 acp for it earlier today before posting!

DWalt · #6 07-20-2017, 03:57 PM

Very few gun shops and other retail outlets will stock it. Some can usually be found at gun shows, and it is available from internet sources. Some dealers may be willing to special order it for you. Figure on at least a buck per shot. Most fanciers of the .32-20 load their own due to the logistics problems associated with the ammunition. Cases and bullets are more readily available than the loaded ammo.

old tanker · #7 07-20-2017, 03:57 PM

Go ahead and enjoy your revolver! Reloading makes .32-20 a little easier to deal with but it is a fine cartridge and a pleasure to shoot. I am fond of the ones I have, although none of them are as nice as yours.

DWalt · #8 07-20-2017, 04:06 PM

BTW, Colt made a number of different revolvers chambered for the .32-20, including the SAA, the Bisley Model (it was a very popular caliber for the Bisley), the New Army & Navy Model, the Police Positive Special, the Army Special, and the Official Police. So far as I know, S&W made only the K-frame M&P. Nonetheless, Colt also got out of the .32-20 revolver business prior to WWII. Most users preferred their revolvers to be .38 Specials.

Wiregrassguy · #9 07-20-2017, 05:27 PM

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! The .32-20 cartridge was originally a rifle cartridge and, later, a lower charged version was made for handguns. I don't think the rifle round is still manufactured and would be unsafe in a revolver; however, check whatever you buy to make sure it is identified as safe for handguns.

bamascv · #10 07-20-2017, 05:40 PM

Well you all were dead on about the ammo. just got back from woods/water for ammo---$44 a box!! I had no idea that ammo was that expensive. I may see if one of the local big box places has it for less. That price will curb a lot of shooting with this pistol.

H Richard · #11 07-20-2017, 07:31 PM

Handloading is the only way to go.

Muley Gil · #12 07-20-2017, 07:46 PM

Welcome to the Forum.

If you can find ammo made by Georgia Arms, it is good stuff. I used to buy it at guns shows in the B'ham area. They also ship.

I've owned a dozen or more .32-20s over the years, revolvers as well as rifles. It is a fun round to fire. Good luck with your ammo search and.....WAAR EAGLE!