Model 1 1/2 first issue ammunition

Scorporise · Jul 9, 2022

I've got a model 1 1/2 I inherited from my grandfather after he passed and its been my dream to fire it at least once. Its serial number 5884 so first issue if I'm understanding correctly, I didn't get any information with it when I got it. I know its a .32 rim fire, I've heard of different long and short cartridges but haven't been able to find any available online only that they're expensive. What would be the exact ammunition that it takes? Would anyone know where to find any? If they aren't available what is needed to make the bullets and how would I do that? I'm a newb when it comes to owning a gun I know the basics but that's about it. I've taken it apart before with help so I know everything inside is good, the barrel has a little wiggle to it I don't know if that can cause problems with firing. I don't get why the one picture is upside down I tried to fix it, also would that be a nickel coat or blued finish?

DWalt · Jul 9, 2022

The correct name of the cartridge is the .32 Short rimfire. It continued to be made in the USA into the early 1970s and some newer ammunition was imported from Brazil in the 1990s. It used to be seen regularly at gun shows, but that is probably not the situation today. There are several dealers in obsolete ammunition who will still sell it, but it will definitely not be cheap. You might try the Old Western Scrounger, or Google search for obsolete ammunition dealers. It may take some searching. You might also get on the International Ammunition Association website and inquire there for sources. That's where the serious ammo collectors hang out.
Other Rimfire

gmborkovic · Jul 9, 2022

Hello Scorpo, got one. And dont be hell bent to find ammo and shoot it.
Believe me, I shot mine and it was anti-climatic. Some smoke, little recoil and lots of cleaning afterwards. But if you have to, go for it. Mike

4T5GUY · Jul 9, 2022

I also have an inherited 1 1/2. It's nickel with rosewood bird heads. Roy told me it was a 2nd edition, 1873. (That's back when you could call him directly and actually talk to him.)

It's in really good shape, tight and in mechanically excellent condition although the nickel is missing/thin in a few places.

If I remember correctly there was a way, using Ramset .22 charges and modified .32 S&W brass to safely load and shoot these. There used to be information about this and maybe there still is. I never pursued this but maybe someday?

Jim

Patbar · Jul 10, 2022

DWalt said:
The correct name of the cartridge is the .32 Short rimfire.
.......................................

The 1 1/2 model also chambered the .32 long rimfire cartridge.

danalex · Jul 10, 2022

There is a kit to make 32 RF (in France)
I believe they ship to the US

32 RF

Exmilcop · Jul 10, 2022

I was lucky in finding some .32 rf longs at a gun show. Not cheap mind you, but hard to find in decent condition. I used to have a mod. 1-1/2 but it was in rather poor condition and I found a buyer happy to have it. A buddy bought a box in good condition at a gun show up here (Canada) and he paid $190. so that's about $147. in your money. I'm looking for a very good condition revolver in that caliber. There's a Forehand & Wadsworth in excellent shape up here but the the buyer want's $1300.!

DWalt · Jul 11, 2022

If there are any gun shows in your area, it might be worthwhile to see if you can find some .32 RF rounds there. At most gun shows of any size, there will usually be one to several dealers in old ammunition present who may have some miscellaneous loose individual rounds for sale for a dollar or two each. But they won't necessarily be sure-fire due to their age.

Model 1 1/2 first issue ammunition

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