32 Secret Service Special

[jrrdunit]

I assume this is NOT a S&W, but is there anything significant you may tell me about it. Seems in poor shape.
Thank you for your help

 

[murphydog]

These were made at the turn of the 20th century by several manufacturers (Meriden, Iver Johnson, etc.) Obviously no connection to the USSS, and has the common Smith & Wesson ammo reference rollmarked on the barrel, perhaps to make a buyer think it was a real S & W product.

 

[Smithboomer]

An elderly friend told me his father carried one of those .32 revolvers in his school bag as a teenager in 1930's Poland.
Same model.

 

[desi2358]

The "Secret Service Special" was a brand name used by a Chicago Hardware Store company & wholesaler (Fred Biffar Co. IIRC). They were made by a few different manufacturers. Meriden, Iver Johnson and some Spanish maker as well. The frame shape looks like a Meriden made example but those usually have a different shaped front sight. The " For 32 S&W" on top of the barrel makes me suspect this is one of the Spanish made versions.

 

[jrrdunit]

Thanks guys for the input/info. Totally interesting. If a gun could talk!

 

[.455_Hunter]

Looks to be one of the better models since the cylinder appears to have a fully functional stop and won't freewheel at rest.

 

[LVSteve]

I assume this is NOT a S&W, but is there anything significant you may tell me about it. Seems in poor shape.
Thank you for your help

If you think that is in poor shape, you would run screaming at the sight of my Enfield No.2 revolver.

 

[nutsforsmiths]

These pistols were sold though mail order only. H&R also made some Secret Service Special pistols for Fred Biffar.