Fellows:

I'm trying to date my model 32 year of manufacture. It has the following features:

SN: 8440*
Mod 32 (no dash)
blue finish
Flat latch
Ramp front
Diamond grip panels

Thanks!

Idaho bladesmith

Welcome to the forum.

Presuming that 5 digit # Model 32 came from the butt of the grip frame, I can tell you it's a 38 S&W Terrier with 2" barrel and rd butt grip.

It's built on the Model 1953 NEW I frame and shipped about 1958-59.

__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819

Thanks Jim...

Is it true that "New" I-frame guns can use J-frame action parts?

Yes, New I and J share all action parts and grips, but not extraction rods and cyl parts.

And even better than that:

Pre Model 1953 I frames and new I frames, both share most parts with Baby J frames and Model 1953 New J frames with the exception above. And pre '53 I frames have a leaf mainspring and compatible hammer, while all the others have coil main springs/hammers.

Pre '53 I and J have the same grip size and '53 New I and new J share the same 1/8" longer round butt grips.

The 22/32 Kit Gun I frames of course have rimfire hammers unique to them.

__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819

How about a Mod 32 S/N 704**? What's the most likely mfg date range. I'm trying to determine if it's C&R FFL eligible (i.e., 1968 or earlier).

Welcome to the forum.

You don't have a Mod 32 unless you left out a digit.

The #704XX would be a 32 Hand Ejector from ~ mid 1907.

If it is stamped Mod 32 in the yoke with a 6 digit # as I presume, it's from the very late 1950's or very early 1960's; definitely below 1968.
And has a flat latch.

__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819