imported post
kenny wrote:
A family member came accross a S & W 32 caliber top break revolver in a trunk of a parent. From the SN I am guessing it is the 1st or 2nd model. It is a top break. Does anyone have an idea since it will not break open, if it is just difficult or perhaps rusted?
At one time I think everyone in the country had a top break of some sort in their pocket Kenny.
I have 15 or so stuffed in various drawers.
You haven't given me much to work on but I'll try.
First, will the toggle latch on top move.
If not, use PB Blaster on it.
Soak the hinge also.
Most of these, eject the cases as they break open. If it will not open after you have gotten the latch to move, spray PB into the cylinder...right in the middle where the pin would go through...if it had a pin. Then on the other end really soak the top of the cylinder where you would load the cartridges.
Give it some time and with repeaded spraying and a little light muscle, you will get some play, then more and it will open.
If after doing the above, it will still not open, go to the auto parts store and get some Marvel Mystery oil. It has Wintergreen and is one of the best rust busters around.
Soak it in that for a day, week or however long it takes (a day will usually do it)
make sure you remove the grips.
Go slow, I like these old things and they are a piece of history worth saving. There aren't nearly as many available as there used to be.