Lemon squeezer question?

[33jayman]

What do you look at to evaluate shootability on these? I look at the hinge, cylinder lock up, tightness of the latch ant it's hinge too and then look at grips and overall exterior condition. What other things should I consider?

Thanks,

Jay

 

[murphydog]

Bore and chamber condition. It's unusual to find an older top-break that doesn't have pitting in the bore/chambers from black powder left uncleaned, although it may not affect the gun's accuracy.

 

[DWalt]

Corrosion is not so much a result of black powder residue, but the corrosive priming in use until the late 1920s. I think you've covered everything. If everything is tight, it should be OK to shoot. I think the tightness of the barrel-frame latch is the most important factor.

 

[33jayman]

Thanks for the responses guys. If I get a chance, I will check the cantidate out tomorrow.

Jay

 

[HJ Lamb]

Newbie

Just came into a .38 S&W lemon squeezer. It has about 40 percent of bluing and from what I can tell by it's serial number 161XXX it is a 4th in the 5 series of this revolver. The scales are totally intact and have the same serial number scribe marked with a name on one of them (inner area) - Bill 265. The bore has some pitting but is still bright and shiny. The cylinder holes are virtually pit free and shiny, however the front of the cylinder has some light pitting. The exterior finish has wear marks and the bluing is worn around the muzzle and cylinder edges with what appears to be minor surface scratches on the surfaces (both sides) just ahead of the S&W logo, scale logos and surfaces behing the cylinder. It locks up very tight and there is hardly any cylinder movement after the trigger is squeezed and held. The ejection spring is crisp and the firing pin is intact and makes good contact. I have ordered some ammo from Midway at 29.95 plus S/H and will take it to the range soon. A local gunsmith gave it a go to shoot and I would ask if anyone has an idea based on serial number info above as to what the approximate age of this revolver might be. I would like to get it refinished because I didn't pay that much for it, understand it will take a hit on value/collectibility but would just like to see the old gal spruced up and looking good. My grandfather carried a similar one only in .32 caliber when he worked as a dock foreman for the PRR and REA prior to WW2 I think in the late 20s to late 30s. I believe his was an H&R tho as he was a cheap old cuss and would hurt the buffs back squeezing the nickle!