Pre-30?

[meh92]

Do I have a Pre-30? Caliber is .32 S&W Long. The s/n is 640XXX on the gripframe and the s/n on the barrel flat over the ejector rod has the same number with an "N" prefix. The grips are numbered to the gun, and the finish appears original. Other than the obvious scratches, the finish is completely intact. It is in great condition, locks up nicely, and shoots straight.

Would it be a J frame or an I frame? I have never seen an I frame so I have no reference.

Thanks

 

[johnsonl]

I would say that is exactly what you have, a post war, pre model 30, factory nickel I frame. Enjoy it!

 

[meh92]

Wow, that was quick! Thank you very much. How is it different from a "J" frame?

Any idea of a manufacture date? Ballpark value?

 

[RalphK22]

I think that is a J frame by the shape of the trigger guard and the grips seem a bit longer than an I frame.

 

[BUFF]

Your gun was made about 1955-1956, and was made about the time they eliminated the screw at the top of the sideplate, according to Roy Jinks' book. It is an I frame. When the .32 began to be manufactured on the J frame, the serial number range was in the 712000 range and the guns became the Model 31-1.

The main difference between the late I frames and the J frames is the length of the cylinder (longer on the J frame) and the corresponding longer cylinder window in the frame, which required a slightly longer frame.

 

[meh92]

Thank you very much.

 

[sandwtrader]

Based on a 640xxx serial number, is this not an Improved I Frame? My pre Model 633xxx is, and so is 686xxx which is a Model marked M30. The J frame started at the Model maked 30-1 in about 1960.
Hope this helps.

 

[meh92]

My gun has a coil mainspring, no strain screw, and J-frame grips fit it perfectly. I believe that would make it an "improved" I frame.

 

[H Richard]

If the standard length J Frame grips fit it, it would be an Improved I Frame. The picture is for a I Frame .32 Hand Ejector (Pre 30) which shipped Jan. 53 and S/N 60009X. It has the round front sight and the shorter grip frame.

. It is also not a flat latch.