S&W 38 top break

[Drifter Mike]

I recently came into possession of what I believe to be a 2nd Model top break double action in 38 S&W. Locks up nice and tight and timing seems perfect. Guess my biggest questions are, when was it made and is it safe to shoot a few rounds of some more modern ammo? I have some British 380 ( 38/200 ) as well as some more recent Remington 150 gr ammo. I have been told that the U S made ammo is loaded to a very low pressure in respect to the older top breaks, I don't know how true this is. Now the British ammo, it was designed for the Webley and Enfield revolvers so I am thinking it might be a little hotter so I will refrain from shooting it through it. Thoughts?? ( Model 10 with the Top Break for size comparison )

 

[Old_Cop]

Stick with the modern Remington ammo, why take a chance.

 

[gmborkovic]

Mike, put the Brit stuff away. Use the Rem 150.
Nice looking old 38DA. Do the grips number to the gun?

 

[desi2358]

Save the British ammo for the British revolvers (or a nice Victory model). Since you say the gun locks up tight you should be fine with US commercial spec ammo. Could also load up some black powder rounds if you want to get a real blast! I load black for some of my old guns and it is most impressive (and fun!) to shoot.........

 

[Drifter Mike]

Yes, the grips are numbered to the gun

 

[BMur]

Bore condition?

Drifter,
How's the bore? Is it as good as the outside of the gun?

Shooting factory smokeless loads and NOT smokeless reloads requires that the antique bore be as close to mint as possible. Corrosion, pitting, etc can cause an obstruction which translates to smokeless powder pressure spiking when discharged. Which is never a good thing for antique guns.

Also the 38/200 (man stopper) was introduced much later and in the smokeless era for a heavier frame revolver. Too much pressure will result in the antique topbreak.

Murph