Help Identifying Top Break Revolver

[NeanderthalBasketball]

Hello Forum:

I recently inherited a S&W top break revolver. I believe it is a three inch barrel. The serial number on the butt is 188XXX. I know it is pre-WWII. Any help identifying the manufacture date or any details about the piece is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[mrcvs]

We need lots of detailed photographs and what the barrel markings state.

 

[murphydog]

Welcome! There are several possibilities; the keys are the chambering (likely .32 or 38 S & W, which may or may not be stamped on the barrel) and if it has an exposed or concealed hammer. Barrel length is from the muzzle to cylinder face. Someone here will ID it from there.

 

[opoefc]

Welcome, There's a link on this Forum to what info. a poster should include with their request for ID help. Plus, photos are a great help. Please follow the links instructions. Ed.

 

[murphydog]

Here it is:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1961-1980/332218-identify-your-gun.html

Not a great deal of instructions on top breaks, but helpful.

 

[NeanderthalBasketball]

Pics to Follow

I actually just inherited this pistol and am currently dealing with the joy of having it interstate shipped to me. (Sidenote, are any members FFLs in Eastern Iowa?)

Once I have it in hand I will provide the photos and details requested in everyone's replies to this thread. It will likely be a few days or weeks so I will probably just tee up a new thread at that time.

Thanks to everyone for their guidance and I am looking forward to solving this mystery with y'all.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass!

 

[H Richard]

If you do not get a response for an FFL in Eastern IA, I would go to your closest "Local" gun store, not necessarily a chain outfit. Usually they are willing to supply an FFL so it can be shipped. If there is a possibility it dates prior to 1898 no FFL is required, it can be shipped by UPS or Fed Ex directly to you as an antique. Being prior to WWII would also place it in a "C&R" status so anyone that has an 03 (C&R) FFL could receive the shipment for you.

 

[deadin]

Being prior to WWII would also place it in a "C&R" status so anyone that has an 03 (C&R) FFL could receive the shipment for you.

Being a "Belt and Suspenders" sort of guy, I don't know if this would be a good idea or not. For one thing it would have to be logged into the FFL03's book and then immediately logged out to the new owner.

This could be construed as acting like a dealer, which is a no-no.