model 1 1/2 3rd issue

nicksfather

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just trying to get a value on a model 1 1/2 3rd issue. it still has about 75% of the nickel finish and functions great. I also have a spare cyl. assy with a 2 inch barrel that seems to be well cut and the grips are great as well. cyl. and frame numbers match . no numbers found on the grips. will try to post pics as soon as my grandson does them for me.
 
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Only two issues of the 1 1/2 model were produced, along with 650 unities of a transitional model made with the cylinder and barrel of the 1st mixed with the frame of the 2nd.

So, is what you call "3rd issue" a 2nd issue in reality ?

We'll have to wait for your photos.
 
The Model 1 1/2 first Issue was a Square Butt with un-fluted cylinder, and the 2nd model was a Round Butt with Fluted cylinder. There were transitional issues where a 2nd mod frame and barrel had the un-fluted cylinder of the first mod.

The first Model had a 3 1/2"" barrel, with around 200 made with a 4" barrel,
The 2nd model had a 3 1/2" barrel.

 
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model 1 1/2 3rd issue pics

model 1 1/2 3rd issue pics
 

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You have a .32 Single Action. It is sometimes called a Model 1 1/2 .32 Centerfire.
 
Your pictures show a mod 1 1/2 "Centerfire", a 32 Single Action 2nd Issue. It is a "Top Break", where the first Mod 1 1/2 "Rimfire" is a "Tip UP". Looking at my picture, the 3rd from the top is a "Tip up" 1 1/2 rimfire. The two bottom guns are "Top Break's" Mod 1 1/2 2nd Issue "Centerfire".

Why S&W named two different guns the Model 1 1/2 is unknown, but has caused much confusion over the years.

You can still obtain .32 S&W ammo and fire your guns, (if mechanically o.k.) With the 2" barrel put on the gun (if the #'s match) would be called a "Bicycle Gun", and has some collector interest. Does the 2" barrel have the patent information on the side of the barrel? Original 2" barrels do, some barrels have been cut down to look like a Bicycle Gun.
 
Hey nicksfather,
Accurate Market value is very difficult on these. Unless they exhibit some form of rarity like "red" grips or blue finish. Or the earliest models lacking the main spring screw. Or longer barrels, etc. I honestly don't see much value in the 2" cut barrel except for the parts? The latch and screw and the base pin on the barrel are worth $ but they must be able to be removed. Lots of times the screw is frozen and the threaded base pin must be removed by a gunsmith or it will be easily damaged. The complete 32 centerfire assuming all matching numbers and fully functional looks like about a 70% gun. On an open auction you might get better than $200 for it but it also might sit on the web for a while before selling. They are pretty common since a lot of them seem to have survived to this century. Cowboy action shooters will often be interested so you might want to steer it in their direction to get the maximum bang for your buck!
 
thank you for your input. I would let it go for 250.00 if I listed it . I do not have ant interest in it .I would also trade it towards a colt 1903.
 
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