Hello all! I'm new to the forum and would like some help identifying a revolver my grandfather recently acquired. I have included two high-res photographs but I think that 552 S & W CTG S is printed along the barrel. Also, don't worry, those are casings in the chamber!

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	DSCN0843 (1024x768).jpg (56.5 KB, 73 views)

It looks like a S&W .38 Double Action revolver (.38 DA). Before someone else jumps on you, CTG is simply S&Ws abbreviation for "Cartridge."

These were made in 5 different models, some are easily distinguishable by appearance, some are not. You need to provide the serial number on the butt for positive identification. And the grip panels are not original. It takes .38 S&W ammunition, NOT .38 S&W Special. That ammunition is somewhat difficult to find but remains in production.

These revolvers were made in great quantities from 1880 to 1911, and are worth relatively little unless in tip-top original condition. Yours is not.

DWalt has the model correct, except from the size of the cylinder I think it is a .32. This would be the .32 S & W (sometimes called Short, not the more readily available Long).

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Welcome to the forum. Actually, that is a .32 Double Action rather than .38. The cylinder is too short for the larger round. This is the fourth model in the .32 DA line. The fourth model guns were made from 1883 to 1909, with serial numbers ranging from about 43000 to about 280000.

As DWalt suggested, value will not be high. Nevertheless, if it is in sound operating condition, it could be a fine old shooter to celebrate the guns of decades gone by. Value is probably in the $200-250 range for people with a taste for older S&Ws, but collectors would probably pass this one by in search of one that was closer to original condition.

This gun chambers the .32 S&W round, not .32 Long. I think you may have .32 Long cases in the cylinder now.

ADDED: I see Alan got there before I did. That happens a lot.

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David Wilson

You are right - it is a .32 S&W, not a .38 S&W. Otherwise everything said is pretty much the same.

Thanks for the information, everyone! I really appreciate it!