help me identify this pistol - The Firearms Forum

KennethTheriot · 12-30-2010, 09:55 PM

On barrel: GH Revolver Pat 4 May 1881. On bottom of grip: Spain. We were given this gun while helping clean out an old house, and aren't sure how to go about getting info on it. Any help appreciated.

Esteban · 12-31-2010, 07:15 AM

GH= Guisasola Hermanos

Probably a close copy of a Smith & Wesson, or a Colt. Get it checked out by a gunsmith before trying to shoot it & verify the caliber. DON'T shoot any high power loads in it.

Jim K · 12-31-2010, 04:25 PM

I will extend that warning; I strongly recommend against firing that revolver with any ammunition of any kind. Spanish revolvers of that type were imported into the US by the ton in the 1920's and 1930's. While some were reasonably well made, many were made of cheap cast iron of the type used to make cookpots (hence, "pot metal"). Many have blown up in firing normal ammunition. At least the makers of that one thought enough of the product to at least put their initials (but not their name) on it; most have no maker's name at all.

IMHO, the gun is worth what you paid for it; I suggest you retire it to wall hanger status.

Jim

12-30-2010, 09:55 PM	#1
KennethTheriot Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Posts: 1	help me identify this pistol On barrel: GH Revolver Pat 4 May 1881. On bottom of grip: Spain. We were given this gun while helping clean out an old house, and aren't sure how to go about getting info on it. Any help appreciated. -->

12-31-2010, 07:15 AM	#2
Esteban V.I.P. Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Fl. Posts: 74	Re: help me identify this pistol GH= Guisasola Hermanos Probably a close copy of a Smith & Wesson, or a Colt. Get it checked out by a gunsmith before trying to shoot it & verify the caliber. DON'T shoot any high power loads in it.

12-31-2010, 04:25 PM	#3
Jim K Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Posts: 6,408	Re: help me identify this pistol I will extend that warning; I strongly recommend against firing that revolver with any ammunition of any kind. Spanish revolvers of that type were imported into the US by the ton in the 1920's and 1930's. While some were reasonably well made, many were made of cheap cast iron of the type used to make cookpots (hence, "pot metal"). Many have blown up in firing normal ammunition. At least the makers of that one thought enough of the product to at least put their initials (but not their name) on it; most have no maker's name at all. IMHO, the gun is worth what you paid for it; I suggest you retire it to wall hanger status. Jim