Found this at a gun show. Described as a pre-model 30; 4" bbl., has coil spring, flat latch, and three screws? You can see from the pics the finish indicates this as a shooter but it locks up tight, has bright bore, and the numbers match (including the diamond grips which are in very good shape).

Serial number is 642365. Is this a J frame and will J frame grips fit? Reason for asking is I like the looks of the round to square butt grips for J frames but not sure if they would work on this one. Thoughts or comments? Thanks, Steve

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Welcome aboard from Wyoming, Steve.

Nice one. I haven't managed to find a 4" yet.

I don't believe J-frame stocks will fit, but I have to admit I've not tried to fit any of my J-frame stocks to any of my I-frame .32s.

I might have to try it just so I know.

Added later: well, I'll be dipped. Yes!

My .32 HE is a 4-screw (pre-model 30, I-frame) that shipped on June 1, 1956. I also have a Chiefs Special 3-screw (pre-model 36 J-frame) from 1956. Except for the frame specific dimensions of the stocks (they were still custom fit to the gun back then) they're interchangeable. Even the stocks from my 1977 Chiefs Special fit on the .32 HE. Learn something everyday. Glad you asked.

Bob

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Wrangler of stray Chiefs
Bob

Steve,

Nice catch.

I and J frames' stocks are the same size for the same vintage.

Officially you have a "Model of 1953 32 hand Ejector" which is the introduction of the NEW I frame with 4 screws. The Model of 1953 New J frame with 4 screws was introduced the same year.

Before 1953 and with 5 or more screws (back to 1896 for the 32), the I and J frames stocks are the same size.

From the 1953 models to the present with 4 or less screws (to the demise of the NEW I frame Oct 1960 to Jan 1961) the stocks are also the same size, but 1/8" longer than the pre 1953 RB stocks.

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Jim
S&WCA #819

That's a great gun. 32 long is so pleasant to shoot, very accurate, and fun to hunt small game with. Nice Catch!!

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PTLAPTA!

Thanks for the responses - that was just what I needed to know about possible replacement grips. The ones on the gun are original and numbered to the gun, and in very good shape so I may buy some to put on for using this as EDC. Have looked at the Altamont site and they have some good looking ones for the RB and also to convert the RB to SB that all look good.

I have shot this briefly to verify functionality and it is fun. The grips that extend the grip to a SB configuration look like they would give you a little more to hold onto while shooting and still not be too large for concealment.

Thanks again for the info! Steve