Need ID Help Please

[nascardog]

I found a small S&W revolver in a house my daughter purchased, but there is no caliber or model markings. Here's the info:
Top break barrel
Auto Shell Extractor
S/N 400950
No caliber stamp
No model # stamp
3-5/16" barrel length
Fixed sights
5 Shot cylinder
Cylinder chambers diameter accept .38SPL brass
There is a small step inside the cylinders. Interior cylinder length
measures .78" between the breech and step.
Cylinder chambers length are too short to accept .38SPL ammo
Cylinder is 1.214" overall length
Yes-Strain screw
There are 3 screws on the port side of the pistol:
#1 Allows barrel to swivel away from the frame
#2 Located 1/2 way between hammer and trigger
#3 Allows latch to be lifted and open the pistol
Thank you for any info you may have.

 

[glowe]

Welcome to the Forum. Sounds like you have a 38 Double Action, 4th Model made from 1895 to 1909. It was available in a 3.25", 4", 5", and 6" lengths. Serial number 400,950 indicates your revolver is a "modern" firearm as defined by the BATF. It likely shipped 1900-1901.

 

[erikpolcrack]

Caliber is assumed to be 38 S&W, an older, shorter cartridge than the later 38 Spl. It and its bullet are of slightly greater diameter than the 38 Spl. The two cartridges are not interchangeable. 38 S&W ammo is available, but not as common or as cheap as 38 Spl.