Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .32 Double Action Fourth Model

Serial Number: 232371

Year of Manufacture: 1899-1909

Caliber: .32 S&W

Action Type: Top Break, Double Action / Single Action, 5-Shot Revolver

Barrel Length: 3 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a round blade pinned to the top of the rib. The rear sight is a U-notch integral to the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black hard rubber with smooth diamonds and monograms. The inside of the right panel has the serial number hand-scribed. There are some scattered little marks and light handling wear. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in about Fine Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel, Blued Trigger Guard, Extractor & Latch, Case Color Trigger & Hammer

Finish Originality: Original to the parts. The barrel, latch and cylinder are each marked "232370". Given the overall high condition and being off by only the last digit, it is likely this is a factory error.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is infrequent minor erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8-9/10

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are some swirl marks and draglines. There are some scattered little scuffs. There are a few little spots of finish loss that have taken on discoloration. There is infrequent faint oxidation with slightly more notable oxidation on the frame under the grips. There is a turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Very Good-Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The .32 Double Action was introduced in 1880 and was not only the first Smith & Wesson .32 caliber model to have a trigger guard, it was their first double-action revolver. They proceeded to go through five models, with roughly 239,600 of the 4th model produced between 1883 and 1909. This example was made after 1899 and is a Curio & Relic based on the serial number, it is in Very Good-Fine condition and looks absolutely stellar. These guns were utilitarian tools that saw daily use, seeing one this good looking is truly a pleasure. Of possible interest to collectors, the frame serial number is 232371, but all of the other metal parts are marked 232370. Given the condition of the revolver and being off by only one on the last digit, it seems most likely that this was a factory error. In any case, this is a neat little smith that will display well in any collection without taking up too much room. Please see our photos and good luck!