Caliber Identification

Question

U.S. Revolver   I have a revolver made by U.S. Revolver Co. with a 64501 stamped on the trigger guard.  It has a 5 shot cylinder.  There is no caliber indication on the pistol that I can find.  I would like to find out what caliber it is.  Can you assit me?

Answer
Doug,

From the photo it appears to be the .32 caliber version of the US Revolver made by Iver Johnson Cycle works.  They made these guns between 1910 and 1934.  Based on the serial number, I would guess that yours was made in the 1913-1914 time frame.  I don't have access to detailed serial number records, but based on other guns I have seen dated, that is pretty close.

This gun was a smaller version of the .38 caliber US Revolver of the same design.  If you are thinking about shooting it, have a gunsmith check it out first to insure that it is operating correctly and in good condition.  You should understand that guns built between 1900 and around 1920 were not designed to handle the pressures generated by modern ammunition.  While you may be able to shoot it safely if it is good shape, you probably don't want to shoot it very much...

I hope this helps you out.

Regards,

Doug Little