Author Topic: Old S&W Help  (Read 520 times)

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Offline 223 handi

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Old S&W Help
« on: May 13, 2007, 08:05:45 PM »
I was left a S&W .32 cal. by my grandfather. The only markings on it are .32 WCF CTG on the barrel. No model # anywhere not even inside the grips.  Have heard that it was possible a police/military issue. Just curious, what can you tell me about it. Thanks for the info!!
It's better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Offline John Traveler

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Re: Old S&W Help
« Reply #1 on: May 13, 2007, 09:55:43 PM »
With only the brief information you provided, here is an educated guess:

.32 WCF is the older name for the .32-20 cartridge, made for both revolvers and repeating rifles. since the middle 1880's.

If your revolver is six shots, and has fixed sights, it's  a good chance that you have the S&W hand ejector model of 1905.  This is the model that the modern S&W model 10 "K" frame size is based on.  The Hand Ejector is most commonly found in .38 S&W Special, but it was also made in much smaller quanties in other calibers.

Look at the roll engraving on top of the barrel.  It should include patent dates that will further identify the model.

You will need to provide the full serial number to determine date of manufacture.

In this caliber, it wasn't likely issued as a police/military weapon, but may have been privately purchased for such use.

HTH
John
John Traveler