Re: Iver Johnson Revolver Questions
rimfirerat,
your revolver is a amall frame second model safety automatic hammerless revolver. the second model was manufactured between 1896 and 1908. the second models were manufactured for black powder cartridge pressures and are not considered safe with modern ammo. the 5 patent date markings on the bottom of the butt were only in use between 1903 and 1905. the main serial number location is on the left side of the grip frame under the grips. this is the location where the serial number letter codes will be found. the letter codes in use on the small frame hammerless model during this time were 1903=H, 1904=L and 1905=O.
the fact that this revolver was used for many years with smokeless ammo attest to it strength but is also the reason for it worn-out mechanism.
i almost forgot the 6 shot 32 were not introduced by iver johnson until 1909 when the third model was introduced and in large frame only. the third model safety automatic revolvers (1909-1941) are the only safety automatic revolvers considered safe with smokeless ammo.
bill
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