just purchased a 32 long target to go with my 22/32. i would like more info about it, if someone has some. i believe it has a homemade front sight, obvious condition issues and 2 small screws on the sideplate. s/n is 17713 and the barrel, cylinder and frame all match. let me know what it might be worth, because i just like to cry.
32 i frame target birth date, please
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Welcome to the forums from the cotton and peanut covered plains of the Wiregrass! Would you post better lighted pictures of the trademark stamp, any patent dates on top of the barrel and the caliber stamp? It could be a .32 HE Target (2nd Model HE).
.32 Model 1903 Target serial 13762 shipped in September 1906.
.32 Model 1903 Target serial 17920 shipped in July 1907.
I don't know what the extra screws in the sideplate are for. The target models are pretty rare so that might affect the value a bit.
.32 Model 1903 Target serial 13762 shipped in September 1906.
.32 Model 1903 Target serial 17920 shipped in July 1907.
I don't know what the extra screws in the sideplate are for. The target models are pretty rare so that might affect the value a bit.
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as requested. thanks for answering. the top of the barrel has 2 lines of text starting with "smith and wesson springfield mass..." and ending with "02 july 03". edited to add: forgot caliber rollmark pics.
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Well, it looks like a factory target. You really need to get an Historian's Letter of Authenticity from the Historical Foundation. It is reported than less than 200 were made.
thanks wiregrass, this one does need a letter. the two small screws are fillers, like someone had a target (peep?) sight screwed to the side plate. there is an issue with the rear sight elevator screw also. and now, the age old question, restore to original glory? or leave in as found condition. it locks up nicely and should be a good shooter.
Don't try to restore it or you will kill collector value. Clean it up as much as possible without removing any remaining finish then put Renaissance Wax on the outer surfaces...or keep it lightly oiled. The action on that gun is obsolete since 1905. Make sure to keep it clean and lightly oiled. The most vulnerable part is the trigger return spring which, over time, work hardens and breaks. The springs are nearly impossible to find. It is very collectible and should value in the low 4 figures. Congratulations!
