Any info on this gun?

[max503]

Sorry for the cryptic information but this is all I have. I'm asking about a S&W 32 HE, SN#8009.
I was told, over the phone, that it is probably a 32-20, but he wasn't sure.
I realize this isn't much to go on but I thought I'd give it a try.
Thanks.

 

[DARE]

A picture would help a lot. If it is a 32-20, it might be a Model of 1902, 2nd Model. Serial number range for that model is 5312 to 9811 manufactured 1902-1905.

 

[JP@AK]

S&W 32 HE, SN#8009.

I was told, over the phone, that it is probably a 32-20, but he wasn't sure.

Tell the guy to look on the side of the barrel. If it is a .32-20, the caliber stamp will say 32 Winchester CTG.

.32-20 HE #8037 is a Model of 1902, 5" barrel, target sight revolver that shipped in March 1904.

.32-20 HE #9097 is a Model of 1902, 5" barrel, fixed sight revolver that shipped in August 1903.

Shipments did not occur in serial order, but yours would fit somewhere in that time frame.

On the other hand, if it says 32 S&W Long on the barrel, it is a whole different kettle of fish.

 

[max503]

This is the best I could do for a picture. The finish is pitted but maybe it could be a shooter. They think its a 32-20.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

It appears to be a newer gun than one with 8009 for a serial number. I suspect they didn't get that number from the butt. Have them give you the serial from the bottom of the butt frame. It could be .32-20 but likely not .32 Long. It appears to be a K frame with a square butt. So, at least Model 1905. Either .38 Special or .32-20 (.32 W.C.F). The caliber should be stamped on the barrel.

 

[DWalt]

The SN stamped on the butt and the caliber stamp on the barrel are essential to determining what it is.

 

[max503]

It's at an auction site about an hour and a half away. They seem to have a good reputation but...I called yesterday, asking about it. He didn't seem to want or be able to take the time to give me more information about the gun. He said he thinks it is a 32-20, and he said it is good mechanically and it has a good bore.
I'd like to bid on it but without better info I won't. If it won't shoot any money I put on it is lost. I don't need a paperweight.

 

[glowe]

Any auction house that will not bother to get off their butt to give you the information you seek will not have a good reputation for long. Avoid the gun and the auction house that will not help its potential bidders. Feel sorry for the seller as well!

 

[JH1951]

Any auction house that will not bother to get off their butt to give you the information you seek will not have a good reputation for long. Avoid the gun and the auction house that will not help its potential bidders. Feel sorry for the seller as well!

^^^ Exactly what glowe said. ^^^
That said, I have noticed that some of the well established sellers at auction houses and on GB have been 'leaving out' some important tidbits in their descriptions. This makes it all that more important to know what questions must be answered before throwing money at things.

 

[handejector]

It has a mediocre reblue.

 

[glowe]

^^^ Exactly what glowe said. ^^^
That said, I have noticed that some of the well established sellers at auction houses and on GB have been 'leaving out' some important tidbits in their descriptions. . .

Fortunately, I have never had the response the OP got from them and those I have contacted have always went to get the gun and answer my questions immediately. That is proper service for me plus respecting the owner who is consigning the gun to the auctioneer.

 

[Muley Gil]

To me, if it has a good bore and is tight overall, it would be a $300 S&W, tops, including all fees.

 

[max503]

Thanks everyone. I don't have enough information, and the auctioneer wasn't able to supply it, so I am taking a pass.