Flat Latch Question

[ky40601]

I recently came upon a nickel plated .32 S&W revolver. The gun shop owner said it was a pre model 31 with a flat latch. What are the production years of flat hatches? Plus, I can't find anything on a pre Model 31.

I believe I going to buy it because it's a neat little revolver with diamonds in the S&W wood stocks/grips. It's in great condition but I would like to know what I'm getting.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you,

Jackie

 

[scha]

Generally speaking, the flat latch was used from around 1950 to 1966. There was an early flat latch that was flatter than the later flat latch which was more tapered. The Pre Model 31 was called a 32 Regulation Police and was produced 1946 until 1957 when it became the Model 31. It had a barrel length of 3 1/4, 4 1/4 or 6". Serial numbers ranged from around 536000 to 712953. This information comes from the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson.

Hope this helps.

Steve

 

[ky40601]

Steve,

Thanks for the great info.

Jackie

 

[ky40601]

Steve,

I ordered the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson".

Again, thank you.

Jackie