.32 Handejector 2nd Change?

Kingspoke · #1 10-17-2017, 03:04 PM

Hey guys, I need help identifying this gun, as I'm not familiar with Hand ejectors. Using the book, I placed this gun as a 2nd change model of 1903, but I'm not sure. This is based on a serial number of #601XX given to me by the seller.

Also based on the book, the grips appear to be incorrect, as these appear to be square butt gold medallion (1910-1920) vintage. Is this correct (wrong grips)?

Lastly, what is the approximate value based on photos and above. These photos are all I have, thanks!

DWalt · #2 10-17-2017, 03:11 PM

Your SN would place it from around 1907-08, a little early for the deep dish gold medallions. But not necessarily. I'll leave valuation to others.

Kingspoke · #3 10-17-2017, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DWalt

Your SN would place it from around 1907-08, a little early for the deep dish gold medallions. But not necessarily. I'll leave valuation to others.

Thank you! Am I correct on the model?

DWalt · #4 10-17-2017, 03:20 PM

It is a Model 1903, Second Change. So you are correct.

Kingspoke · #5 10-17-2017, 03:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DWalt

It is a Model 1903, Second Change. So you are correct.

Thanks, I have no clue other than the book, lol!

Hondo44 · #6 10-17-2017, 03:29 PM

It's actually a 32-20 Hand Ejector Model of 1905 -3rd change from ~1914. So the stocks are correct. It's a K frame.

It's being confused with the I frame (smaller model) chambered in .32 S&W Long.

Unfortunately, it appears to have been refinished from the looks of the logo on the sideplate which is almost buffed out. It may have been a blue finish originally but we could only confirm that seeing the finish code on the gun.

Value in the $400-$500 ball park. Value could have been in the $1600 range if it was original finish blue or nickel, and in excellent condition.

Kingspoke · #7 10-17-2017, 04:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hondo44

It's actually a 32-20 Hand Ejector Model of 1905 -3rd change from ~1914. So the stocks are correct. It's a K frame.

It's being confused with the I frame (smaller model) chambered in .32 S&W Long.

Unfortunately, it appears to have been refinished from the looks of the logo on the sideplate which is almost buffed out. It may have been a blue finish originally but we could only confirm that seeing the finish code on the gun.

Value in the $400-$500 ball park. Value could have been in the $1600 range if it was original finish blue or nickel, and in excellent condition.

Thanks! So how can I confirm if it's been refinished? Do I need the stocks pulled or would I have to get my hands on it?

Wiregrassguy · #8 10-17-2017, 04:06 PM

If the stampings are really worn but have plating in the engraving, that's a pretty good sign. Also, it appears that the sideplate screws holes are dished which indicates excessive polishing. Lastly, if it was originally finished in blue, there should be a B stamped under the barrel in front of the serial number on the extractor rod flat.

I'm with Jim. I believe it was refinished. Also, I think he was a bit generous on the valuation. I'd say more like $300-350. But, y'all are in Kalifornia.

DocB · #9 10-17-2017, 04:13 PM

Yup, I'd probably pay $300 in Georgia.

Kingspoke · #10 10-17-2017, 04:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wiregrassguy

If the stampings are really worn but have plating in the engraving, that's a pretty good sign. Also, it appears that the sideplate screws holes are dished which indicates excessive polishing. Lastly, if it was originally finished in blue, there should be a B stamped under the barrel in front of the serial number on the extractor rod flat.

I'm with Jim. I believe it was refinished. Also, I think he was a bit generous on the valuation. I'd say more like $300-350. But, y'all are in Kalifornia.

Now, we're talking. I was going to offer $350. A quick and easy way will be the 'B' stamp, thanks! I'll ask him, but based on what you guys are saying I'm in agreement with your points, and will probably pass, as I don't like non original finish. Thanks a ton guys! I'll call him and see, and then get back!

Kingspoke · #11 10-17-2017, 04:32 PM

Ok, you guys are right on the money! He agreed, saying it looked like a heavy buffing job, though he didn't find a 'B'. So thanks a lot fellas, as I saved a few coins for the next one!

Also, it was nice to know (kinda of, lol) that I mis-identified the gun, so now, I've learned something on distinguishing the .32 from the .32-20.

A good day, overall!

Again, this site has be very valuable, in sharpening my collector skills!

Kingspoke · #12 10-17-2017, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wiregrassguy

If the stampings are really worn but have plating in the engraving, that's a pretty good sign. Also, it appears that the sideplate screws holes are dished which indicates excessive polishing. Lastly, if it was originally finished in blue, there should be a B stamped under the barrel in front of the serial number on the extractor rod flat.
Yes, I see that, now!
I'm with Jim. I believe it was refinished. Also, I think he was a bit generous on the valuation. I'd say more like $300-350. But, y'all are in Kalifornia.

Don't leave out the Kommie part!

Hondo44 · #13 10-17-2017, 06:25 PM

Yeah, People's Republik of Kommiefornia