22/32 finally!

lscocoa

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I’ve been waiting about a month and a half now for a guy to decide if he was going to take this gun . My dealer called today and said it was mine if I wanted it, oh yeah! A 22/32 HE, used and probably kept in the holster it came with . SN: 255xxx puts it pre WW1 if I’m reading correctly my 4th edition . Not sure if it was reblued at one time as the S&W stamp on the right seems worn possibly buffed a bit more ? There is also a star stamped just below the strain screw on the grip frame , not sure what that means . The gun seems to be in good shape other than finish wear . I have to pick up some standard velocity to try it out as I assume anything more might be harmful. Any ideas on the holster make? I think I did good at 375.00 out the door what do you think ?
 

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Hard to do much better on that price! You have a 22/32 Heavy Frame Target. Nice pick up.
First produced in 1911 as the Bekeart Model, earlier models shipped to the Bekeart Gun Shop in SF, (the suggester for this model) have greater value.

The star indicates a trip back to the mother ship for a factory re-finish. You likely find a date stamped on the left side grip frame under the grip.
Also on the heel of the grip frame you'll find a refinish code like B-R in a rectangle and/or a diamond.

I'd guess, by the bright blue finish, it was done before WWII. It may have had a repair or parts replacement as well. Look for a diamond by the serial #s on other parts.

After 1930 a retrofitted improved cyl with recessed chambers is not uncommon for guns returned to the factory. Are the chambers recessed? This would allow using hi velocity ammo; introduced around that time.

From the serial #, target grips with gold medallions, and logo on the side, it shipped before US entry in WWI in the first half of 1917.

You'l To confirm all parts are original, one can check for the 6 matching serial # locations for fixed sight pre war Hand Ejectors and all post war Hand Ejectors thru ~1956 and a few as much as 3 years later. Target guns have 9 locations including front and rear sight bladeds and rear sight base.

NOTE: Observing serial #s for accuracy or even existence, especially on penciled stocks, requires magnification, bright light, and an attitude that it is there!

1. Gun butt - or fore strap on I frames/single shots with grips that cover the butt

2. Barrel - bottom of barrel or in extractor shroud

3. Yoke - on rear face only visible thru a chamber with a flashlight

4. Extractor star - backside

5. Cylinder - rear face

6. Right stock only - on back; stamped, scratched or penciled depending on vintage and stock material. (except most post war target grips because individual fitting not required.)

Sorry, I have mo opinion on the holster.

Shoot and enjoy!
 
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My 22/32 is a 6" barrel with adjustable sights with matching serial numbers of 27664X.

Any ideas as to the date of manufacture and possible value with 80%+ original bluing?
 
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