So I recently purchased a new pistol, the shop I got it from suggested that I have the gun inspected before I fire it. It's an H&A 32 top break, if the serial number is correct, it's over 115yrs old. So I'm looking into getting it inspected, to make sure it's safe to fire, I was curious what a good gunsmith would do to make sure it's safe to fire? As well if anyone knows a good gunsmith?
Having a pistol inspected?
- Thread starter m.ammer69
- Start date
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GuitarmanNick
Ultimate Member
Can't help with recommending a smith, but the shop gave you great advice.
With revolvers, there is a chance that use has caused wear over it's lifetime leaving things not as tight as they need to be. Cylinder timing, lockup, play, etc... along with checking for cracks, pitting, etc...
Top break revolvers have a few additional things which could result in catastrophic failure and injury.
Even if it checks out well, be sure to use ammunition appropriate for the old metal.
With revolvers, there is a chance that use has caused wear over it's lifetime leaving things not as tight as they need to be. Cylinder timing, lockup, play, etc... along with checking for cracks, pitting, etc...
Top break revolvers have a few additional things which could result in catastrophic failure and injury.
Even if it checks out well, be sure to use ammunition appropriate for the old metal.
This^^^ I shoot antique revolvers all the time and it can be done safely, but inspect the timing and frame latch carefully. If you detect any cracks or signs of stress it should become a wall hanger. BP or low powder rounds only. If I can shoot a short in something (i.e. .32 S&W, .38 Colt, etc.) I will always take that option.
With a "new" antique gun make sure timing and lock up are good before you put a live round through it. A lot of these late 1800s guns were not made of the best metal and many were designed to be more or less disposable. Be cautious and have fun!
With a "new" antique gun make sure timing and lock up are good before you put a live round through it. A lot of these late 1800s guns were not made of the best metal and many were designed to be more or less disposable. Be cautious and have fun!
bratgirllcp
Ultimate Member
Scotts gunsmithing in Glen Burnie is close to you. You may want to reach out to SXS on these forums as he works there.
- Feb 17, 2011
- 14,024
That looks gorgeous if the age is true.
Good luck. I used to have a few top breaks in .32 and .38S&W and I had to reload for them. At the time, Cowboy shooting was pretty hot and many people had hide out guns so getting brass wasn't a problem. Today, I can't even find .32 Auto.
GuitarmanNick
Ultimate Member
It's available, just expensive.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1...ping&utm_source=ammo-seek&utm_campaign=303838
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1...ping&utm_source=ammo-seek&utm_campaign=303838
Ahh, the last time I checked there wasn't any in stock. Now if only they would get some .32 ACP.
OP... I've got soft spot for old wheel guns like that. If you are in need of some .32 SW short, let me know and I can hook you up.
Nice looking lady, by the way.
Nice looking lady, by the way.
Just gotta reload for it. Which is a B and a half. I am still figuring that one out. I need to do more measuring of all the things. But commercially loaded rounds I’ve tried run in my Cz50 and Yugo model 70. My reloads, I have to run at minimum COAL before they’ll drop in my model 70 barrel. I’ve tried two types of bullets.
My Cz50 has been having failures to feed at that COAL. I haven’t tried loading to max magazine length (which is what I’ve had recommended to me). But that won’t fly in my 70. Which runs my reloads without a hiccup. And of course component options are limited for .311 bullets in that weight. Really I need to spend a day sitting down and loading up a bunch of options and then get to the range and see what’ll work in the 50.
I no longer load for the .32 ACP as I sold off my collection after about 30 years worth. I reloaded using a 77 grain hard lead bullet that I bought from a bullet casting company in Ohio that is no longer in business. While the CZ 50 and CZ 70 are from the same family, the 70 was a more refined relative. This is what the bullet looked like if you can find someone that still makes therm.
https://www.brownells.com/reloading...ound-nose-pistol-bullet-mould-prod111007.aspx
https://www.brownells.com/reloading...ound-nose-pistol-bullet-mould-prod111007.aspx
remrug
Ultimate Member
Another gracious offer by Doc
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