Project grade 1903 Target

[cgt4570]

I couldn't resist. I tried. I sure don't need another project gun, but a rough, cut off .32 HE Target frame for under $300 delivered was too much temptation. Not sure what I'll turn it into. I have a bunch of spare parts. Maybe I'll put a 6.5" K frame .32 barrel on it (threads should be the same). Who knows.

 

[IWK2HT]

Sounds like great project be interesting to see what you come up with
I’m always looking for some thing to do with extra parts.
Keep us informed

 

[Jim NNN]

I saw that gun, too. Looked like a interesting piece, and I understand the temptation. Best wishes on the project. Will you try to replate it?

 

[cgt4570]

I've been experimenting with diy electroplating some small parts using nickel acetate (vinegar). That's my plan. If that doesn't work, I'll slow rust blue it.

 

[Hondo44]

I've been experimenting with diy electroplating some small parts using nickel acetate (vinegar). That's my plan. If that doesn't work, I'll slow rust blue it.

Chris,

A fun project. Unfortunately a K frame barrel would not work. It could be threaded smaller but would look like a bull barrel unless re-contoured. Very difficult.

With signs of nickel on the hammer it has a nickel re-finish. Is it originally a blue (B under barrel) or nickel finish?

It has some deep pitting, especially the cyl. Too deep to sand/polish off. If you plan to nickel it again, brazing the pits by flowing brass into all pits will fill them nicely and polish smooth, w/o showing once nickeled over.

Braze on an original sight base and pin in a factory target blade.

You'll have a very cool early .32 Kit Gun.

 

[cgt4570]

1899 and 1902 barrels

Chris,

A fun project. Unfortunately a K frame barrel would not work. It could be threaded smaller but would look like a bull barrel unless re-contoured. Very difficult.

With signs of nickel on the hammer it has a nickel re-finish. Is it originally a blue (B under barrel) or nickel finish?

It has some deep pitting, especially the cyl. Too deep to sand/polish off. If you plan to nickel it again, brazing the pits by flowing brass into all pits will fill them nicely and polish smooth, w/o showing once nickeled over.

Braze on an original sight base and pin in a factory target blade.

You'll have a very cool early .32 Kit Gun.

Hondo,
1899 and 1902 (no change) barrels use the same .500 threads as I frames. The .540 wasn't used until the 1902 1st change.

 

[Hondo44]

Hondo,
1899 and 1902 (no change) barrels use the same .500 threads as I frames. The .540 wasn't used until the 1902 1st change.

Yes, true, but in .32? Were you referring to a .32 cal. 1899 or 1902 barrel in first post?

 

[cgt4570]

Yes, true, but in .32? Were you referring to a .32 cal. 1899 or 1902 barrel in first post?

Yes. I have a spare new 1899 target barrel that would have been for a .32 Winchester. It would be perfect for a custom 1903 target in .32 S&W Long. The lack of underlug wouldn't bother me.

 

[Hondo44]

Cool! Didn't consider the 32-20 w/o lug.

Just cut the lug off the current barrel and braze on to the 32-20 barrel.

 

[MNruss]

That one was on my watch list.
It was relisted a time or two.
I'm glad someone here took the temptation away.
Please keep us informed so we can vicariously live the restoration or modifications.