Synopsis:

Interesting Spanish ALPHA Copy S&W K Frame Revolver, cal. .32-20 with a 5" barrel and six-shot cylinder, that was likely shipped to China for use by one of the Warlords in their near-continuous civil war that lasted for several decades during the early part of the 20th century. Not much of a revolver, but a fascinating historical relic whose markings were extremely close to S&W's, complete with a military style holster!

Description:

Unusual Copy of S&W K frame revolver by the Spanish Alpha company located in Eibar, Spain, this example cal. .32-20 with 5" barrel, fixed sights, and six-shot cylinder. The top of the barrel is marked "USE U.S. STANDARD AMMUNITION" with the left side of the barrel stamped "32-20 CTG." The left side of the frame is marked with a circular ALPHA Trade Mark, disturbingly similar to the S&W, while the checkered grips have a circular medallion with the same design. The rear cylinder is numbered "287" while the full SN "52111" is marked on the butt. Complete with a military style leather holster, unmarked except for a metal disc marked "551", fitted with a brass hook forbelt carry and an opened snout to allow passage of the barrel.

Condition:

Generally "good" as a revolver made in the 1920s and likely earmarked for Asia to be used by one of the Chinese warlords. Presents as an old re-dip with wear and light freckling as imaged, the oil-stained grips with blunted diamonds in comparable condition. Dull bore with easily discernible rifling. Correct single action and double action manual mechanics, though with the hammer forward, the cylinder rotates freely as true for many of the early Webleys. Holster aged with repair/stitching above stud hole and missing plug at nose. NOT TO BE FIRED! NOT TO BE FIRED! NOT TO BE FIRED!