32-20 S&W spanish copy

blacksmith

April 02, 2014 04:35

I bought the subject gun which is marked on the grip " ORBEA Hnos EIBAR SPAIN. It looks like a 1899 S&W hand ejector model. It does not show much use. The barrel is marked 32 Winchester CTG. I was told to shoot cowboy action 32-20 loads but not to shoot new 32-20 rifle loads, like Remington Express Rifles, or old ones marked high velocity. I contacted Remington and their only comment was to use a cartridge for which the gun is labeled. I like to hear some comments.

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  charliemeyer007

  April 02, 2014 05:59

  I think you got good advice "No Rifle Loads". Cowboy Action pistol loads should be OK, but if it were mine I'd be loading for it.

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  rufe-snow

  April 02, 2014 07:47

  Early production, Spanish made revolvers have a spotty reputation. Quality of materials and workmanship were questionable.
  
  I would take it to a competent gunsmith. To check timing, lockup and test firing, before shooting it. The Spanish revolvers without proof marks, were made prior to the mid 1920's. Knock-off s of quality Colts and Smith & Wessons, but sold for $20/$30?

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  nmyers

  April 02, 2014 12:04

  Failure to follow rufe-snow's advice could have lethal consequences.
  
  
  
  Neal

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  rhmc24

  April 04, 2014 03:46

  Few people realize the cheapness of Spanish revolvers. As a kid 1930s I used to get a flyer from J.L. Galef "Galef's Go-Getters" that offered .44 Cal DA topbreak Spanish revolvers, new, for $4.50. I lusted after one but a kid was lucky to get work that would pay $3 a week. At the time US customs duty on revolver imports was about $2 each so you can imagine how cheap a $4.50 gun really was.
  
  Then a new H&R 922 or Trapper cost $7 or less & a beater Colt SAA or 1911 went for $5.

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