RFI Iver Johnson Revolver

[Cory]

Picked up a "38 snub" from an acquaintance. For the price was excited to pick up a snub 38 just to have one. He got it in a trade, and didnt really have anything invested. I'm not a novice to revolver safety, but am pretty clueless about wheelgun history and calibers.

After a quick check to see it was unloaded, and showing them how to turn the cylinder I paid and headed home.

Some research tells me the "38 snub" is chambered for 38 S&W an older cartridge not the 38 Special I assumed.

Anything I should know? Did I just buy a paperweight, any idea on it's value?

Photos of the Roscoe...


-Cory

[Joe in PNG]

It's probably .38 S&W.
I've got a similar one in .32 long

[Chuck Whitlock]

Looks to be gate-loading like an SA revolver. If the firing pin is on the nose of the hammer, it is most likely not safe to carry without an empty chamber under the hammer.

[Cory]

Looks to be gate-loading like an SA revolver. If the firing pin is on the nose of the hammer, it is most likely not safe to carry without an empty chamber under the hammer.

I have no intention for this to be a carry or defensive firearm.

Yeah, its firing pin is on the hammer. Side gate loading, but without an ejector rod. Cylinder is fairly easy to remove, pull pin, cock hammer slightly to first notch. First cock notch frees the cylinder. Rotates clockwise.

Any idea on value, or if 38 S&W is any fun to shoot? I'm debating if I should keep it, or see what a local pawn says it's worth.

-Cory

[Jim Watson]

.38 S&W
Firing pin on hammer, Looks like only a half cock for safety
It's value is precisely what you paid for it.

Fun?
Even .38 S&W might kick a bit and I bet the trigger pull is tough.

[medmo]

Looks to be gate-loading like an SA revolver. If the firing pin is on the nose of the hammer, it is most likely not safe to carry without an empty chamber under the hammer.

Actually, it should be safe. IJ patented the “safety revolver” in the 1800’s. Very similar system to what Ruger adopted. Look into the gap between the hammer and frame when you cock it. Should see a hammer block safety sliding down. 38 S&W isn’t close to 38 SPEC ballistically. Expensive but it can be found on the internet. Reloading is simple if you get some brass. Maybe work up some Brit 38/200 loads? Enjoy, and have fun with it.

[willie]

Great sock drawer handgun. Nothing wrong with it. Most likely only round nose lead bullet ammo is available. Not a collector's item. Not valuable.

[Sigfan26]

Reloading is simple if you get some brass. Maybe work up some Brit 38/200 loads? Enjoy, and have fun with it.

38/200 loads are generally not recommended for american make revolvers.



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[03RN]

Great sock drawer handgun. Nothing wrong with it. Most likely only round nose lead bullet ammo is available. Not a collector's item. Not valuable.

[willie]

This choice changes the game. It's the one.