Tob break 5 shot .38

[pboiney]

I have this old S&W 5 shot, top break, 38 caliber revolver on loan from a family member to see what I can find out about it, and possibly do some minor reconditioning to it. The serial number is on the rim of the cylinder, and the manufacturer information is on the top rib of the barrel. There are three patent years listed: May 11, 1880; Jan 5, 1882; April 9, 1889. The serial number, as near as I can make out, is 364315. It has a very worn out holster with the caliber, barrel length, and 3020 embossed on the belt loop. The pistol seems sound, if dirty and a bit worn.
Am I messing with a collectable? Should I leave it as is, and not fire it or do any work to it?
One other thing: it functions as a double action, but the hammer won't lock back, even though it feels like it has a "catch point" and could be single as well.

 

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

Welcome to the Forum!

Your revolver is a .38 S&W DA 4th. Model. These were made between
1895 and 1909 (serial # range: 322701 to 539000). Those with serial
numbers under 382022 are Antique.

These revolvers were both single and double action revolvers. If it won't
cock or stay cocked when the hammer is thumbed back, The single action
sear and/or cock notch on the hammer are damaged.

Before getting too involved, clean the mechanism well. Sometimes mal-
functions are caused by gunk and dried oil interfering with the motion of
small parts.

Cheers!
Webb

 

[pboiney]

Thanks very much for all of the information. So, it's antique, but likely not incredibly valuable in terms of money. I was concerned about ruining the value for my father in law in case he decided to sell it. I'll still proceed with care. Thanks again for your help.