S&W .32 Single Action

[SirIsaacNewton]

I wanted to see if I could get this in working order. I found this in a box of pocket knives that my grandfather left me.

I looked it up in the SCS&W and I think I have the right model. How would I go about fixing this thing up. How much do you think it would cost me? I am a student and can't afford anything extravagant.

 

[cgt4570]

I love those ivory grips!
To start with, I would give it a good cleaning with Flitz metal polish, then oil it.
What's wrong with it? (aside from the obvious loss of finish)
Mechanically, these are very simple. I've got several. A bad looking bore can often be cleaned up to shoot fine.
A refinish is never going to be worth it. If it is still tight and the bore is decent, it will be fine after a good cleaning. I shoot mine and they work great.
If it does turn out that some parts need to be replaced, or it needs some mechanical adjustment, then Dave Chicoine at www.oldwestgunsmith.com can fix it. He knows top break Smiths inside and out.

 

[SirIsaacNewton]

There is a small wiggle with the lock up. I don't think it is a big deal and the trigger doesn't work. I am not really sure how the single action is supposed to work. The hammer doesn't lock back and the trigger is loose. I am guessing that there isn't a spring or that it is broken. I haven't taken it apart yet. I would love a schematic for one. So if anyone knows where I can purchase/download one that would be great.

 

[cgt4570]

32sa

The above link is a complete parts diagram from Dave's parts page.
Sometimes the wiggle can be solved by gently squeezing the hinge closed just a bit (with the barrel removed). Beyond that, I think it is best left to a pro. As for the trigger spring, if it's broken, he shows them in stock for $12. It's a flat V spring, so they are prone to breakage. Common problem with lots of old top breaks. (I've made replacements from those large black binder paper clip thingies from an office supply store and cut them to fit with a Dremel cutoff wheel!)

The good thing about that gun is it's a bona fide antique, so if you decide to send it off for repair, you can mail it without any problems. It's perfectly legal to send through the mail.

 

[SirIsaacNewton]

Thanks so much for the help that is exactly what I was looking for. I took the side plate off and it is so incredibly dirty. I will post before and after pictures. That way you can see how your info has helped.

Would it be possible for someone to either post a picture of one of these guns with the side plate off and/or point me in the direction of a book that would illustrate the components.

 

[leochicca]

A book with great illustrations and guidance is published by The Gun Digest. The title is "Firearms Assembly/Disassembly" Part II
Revolvers. Regards Leo, 1353.