Mod 10 vs Mod 30 vs Mod 31

[Aubie Spr96]

I'm looking for a nice carry/plinker in 32 S&W. I see these three models come up consistently. Can someone please explain the subtle differences to me? I'd like to narrow it down so I can refine my search. I'd like a nice, collectable, carry 32 S&W. Hopefully in the $300-$500 range.


Thanks,

 

[ParadiseRoad]

...Model 10 is out...it's a 38...

 

[TRE]

The main difference I can point out is that the Model 10 is on the K frame and the 30 & 31s are on the J frame (early ones on the I frame), which is smaller than the K frame.

The K frame is the frame size that 38 Specials and 357 Magnums are built on (6 shot) while the J frame is normally for the 5 shot 38s, 32s, 22s, etc.

Also, and I'm no expert on these so I am subject to correction, I've never seen a K frame in 32 S&W, only in 32 WCF (32/20). NOT saying that they don't exist, I've just never ran across one.

As far as my pick of the above guns in 32, I would like to find either a 30 (round butt) or a 31 (square butt) for a fun little plinker. I'm becoming more interested in 32 caliber guns, having used 38/357s all of my life for general plinking duties.

I'm sure others with greater knowledge will be along shortly to chime in, but those are my thoughts.

TRE

 

[Aubie Spr96]

Must have been something else I was looking at when the model 10 came up. So, for Post WWII in S&W 32, it's the model 30 or 31? They look VERY similar to me.

 

[ParadiseRoad]

...if I recall correctly...model 30 has round butt frame...model 31 is square butt...

 

[psween]

Mostly just round vs. sq. butt, although I think the 30 could be had in both styles (I know it doesn't make sense). 2, 3, and 4" barrels available that I've seen. I just picked up this 3" 30-1 in decent condition for under $400, but I looked for a while. Stock magna grips are useless for real shooting, at least in my hands, but lots of options to swap out. They are out there in pretty good numbers and the prices seem to reflect the general lack of interest in the .32 caliber. I like mine so far, should be a good plinker and farm gun.

Patrick

 

[murphydog]

There is a current thread about .32 S & W Long fixed sight K frames:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-hand-ejectors-1896-1961/507212-32-m-p.html

These were not produced in large numbers and not at all after 1957, so they never got a model number.

There is a modern K frame .32 Magnum (which can also fire .32 Long), the model 16-4, but at double or more of the top of your price range.

 

[ParadiseRoad]

...I like the older models...I would like to acquire a 32 Regulation Police...great looking revolvers...the one in the photo is from the 1920s...

 

[H Richard]

For compact shooting pleasure the 30 or 31. The 2" is a petite easily concealed 6 shot handgun. The 3", 3 1/4", and 4" and I am told 6" in the Mod 30 have been available. They are very accurate, very mild to shoot, and very easy to carry around for woods/plinking. They have another in the past few years, the 431PD and 432PD which are J Frames in 32 H&R Mag. Airweight, about 13 oz empty and 16 oz loaded. Magnum performance in a small package.

 

[hoosier4guns]

Here is what my wife uses as her carry gun. It's a Model 31-1 from 1981. I picked this up several years ago for $275 at an auction. A real sweet shooter. Here's a couple of pics.

MODEL 31-1 FROM 1981

 

[D Brown]

This is my 31-1, J-Frame .32 S&W Long I picked up about a year ago in pristine condition with magna grips which have since been replaced with Hogue's.

This is my Model 631, J-Frame .32 Magnum purchased new in the late '80's.

This is my 16-4, K-Frame .32 Magnum purchased new in the late '80's. Did I happen to mention I like .32's?