The revolver above was my Dad's. It was in his sock drawer. When I was older (maybe 18 or so) he showed it to me and told me he rarely fired it because the cylinder didn't time with the barrel. He said he had to "cock" the revolver, then move the cylinder around until it locked up, then he could fire it. For the most part, I think it was a sentimental firearm he never fired. I never found out where he got it, but my Brother (5 years older than me) tells me he thinks it was my Dad's fathers (my Grandfather) when he was on the railroad. A cheap pocket gun he carried in case he had trouble on the train (freight). I don't know and I can't confirm that story, so it is just that, a story. No one around except my older cousins that might know that. They are much older than I am. One of these days I'll call them up and ask, they seem to know everything (if you know what I mean
)
I took the Bulldog to the local gunsmith when I took it from my Mom's house years later. He cleaned it up and repaired a part or two in it and it locks up perfectly now. He told me at that time (about 6 years ago now) that it was safe to fire as long as I used the right ammo. "38S&W". He also recommending custom loads using black powder, but said it would hold the newer 38S&W but it is pushing the upper limits of the revolver. He said, "keep it down to a light load if using the newer powder and it will be good to go".
I have never fired it yet, but I felt it was important to not have a "dangerous" non functioning revolver in the house. I think it cost me around $75 to fix (I have spent a lot of money with this guy and I think he did me a favor for that price) and the revolver is only worth about $100 plus. But it was my Dad's. The only mistake I think I made was, he had about 6 rounds of ammo in the drawer with it and I tossed them. I wish I had kept them now.
I think 38 S&W long and short is incorrect. I have another S&W revolver that is 38 S&W. It is like a very short "38 S&W special". I think some call a 38 S&W as 38 S&W short.
Dolk
