The SWSC states that there where 73,000 .32 Safety Hammerless revolvers produced from 1909-1937. Does anyone have an idea of how many 1 1/2" bicycle guns there where made?
Thank you,
Thank you,
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.32 Safety Hammerless 3rd Model, 1 1/2"
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mmaher94087
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If I've seen a .32 Safety Hammerless with a 1 1/2" barrel; I always thought they were cut and never paid any attention. We are aware of 1 1/2" in .38's but I've never encountered one in .32 that lettered; only 2". Never say never with S&W.
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mmaher94087
Member
Gary, nice find! That's the first 'verified' one I've seen.
There is only one 1-1/2" in the SWCA database in the 182,XXX serial number range. That 3rd Model was noted as a special order, so must have had a letter. Supica/Nahas do not state under the 3rd Model the number made but say they are quite rare, worth substantial premium.
I am guessing that the front sight was modified, but if so could easily be changed out to an original half-moon front sight. In my opinion, it would add to the appeal of the gun. Members here would have original sights if interested, just post in the Wanted to Buy section.
I am guessing that the front sight was modified, but if so could easily be changed out to an original half-moon front sight. In my opinion, it would add to the appeal of the gun. Members here would have original sights if interested, just post in the Wanted to Buy section.
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I've got a Colt Lightning with 2" bbl that letters however the front sight is the earlier Brass 1/2 moon with what they use to call German Silver plate. That type of sight was discontinued ten years earlier than the gun was manufactured.
I have found that special order guns often reveal special or unique features that don't follow normal production trends. I think the front sight on this rare Smith is likely unique to the order. Just like the barrel length. It's arguably original. I personally like the look.
I have found that special order guns often reveal special or unique features that don't follow normal production trends. I think the front sight on this rare Smith is likely unique to the order. Just like the barrel length. It's arguably original. I personally like the look.
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singleshot1891
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Here is a .32 Safety Hammerless 3rd Model with 1 1/2" barrel that I own that letters as such. I don't have the letter in front of me right now, but IIRC it shipped to West Virginia ( coal mining country ) in 1937. Somewhere in my memory I think I had been told by a gentleman who collected 1 1/2" barreled top breaks, (he used to be on this forum but I haven't seen him on here for several years) that there may have been as few as a dozen or so of these produced. He said most of them shipped to coal country for whatever reason.
Leroy Thompson
Member
I have two .38 S&W Bicycle Revolvers with 1.5" barrels and both letter to West Virginia, which confirms the previous post.
