Make: Hopkins & Allen
Model: Break-Top Folding Hammer
Serial Number: 8231
Year of Manufacture: 1890s-1906 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .32 S&W
Action Type: Single/double action, top-break, 5-shot, folding hammer
Barrel Length: 3"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned at the muzzle. The rear sight is a v-notch integral to the top latch..
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece hard rubber checkered panels. The grips show light handling wear with no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Nickeled
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is worn. There is heavy pitting and erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 3/10.
Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 20% of its original metal finish. The finish shows heavy scrubbing, oxidation, light pitting, and scratches throughout. The markings are clear and complete. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. Overall, this firearm rates in Poor condition.
Mechanics: The action DOES NOT function correctly. The trigger does not reliably reset and the cylinder has quite a lot of play. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This Hopkins & Allen Break-Top Folding Hammer Revolver was manufactured between the 1890s and 1906 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Hopkins & Allen Arms Company, these revolvers were part of the company's extensive line of affordable pocket and belt revolvers marketed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The exposed folding hammer and top-break action made them practical defensive arms for the period, while the automatic extraction system allowed spent cases to be ejected simultaneously as the action was opened. Today, these revolvers are appreciated by collectors as representative examples of early American cartridge revolvers.
Chambered in .32 S&W with a 3 inch barrel, this single-action/double-action revolver was designed for personal protection and general utility. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 3 out of 10, showing heavy wear with faint rifling remaining. The action does not function correctly. The trigger does not reliably reset, and the cylinder exhibits significant play, making the revolver mechanically unsound and best suited as a collector's piece or restoration project rather than a shooter.
The grips rate in Very Good condition with handling wear appropriate for their age. This revolver retains approximately 20% of its original metal finish, with the balance consistent with long service. Overall, this firearm rates in Poor condition due to its mechanical deficiencies and finish loss, though it remains an interesting example of an early Hopkins & Allen top-break revolver. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
