conkill:
The information on the barrel will indicate the type of ammunition. As you indicate .32 S&W, which is the caliber. I am thinking that if it states Imperial Arms Co. that's who made the pistol in .32 S&W Caliber. The informaton, if any, that is stamped on the frame or receiver will be the pistol mfg'r
Here is a brief history on the Ctg, and this may clear some things up for you.
Designed for the S&W Model 1½" hinged-frame, single action revolver. The 32 S&W is an old and very popular cartridge, widely used in the U.S. and in Europe for low priced pocket type revolvers. Originally a black powder cartridge, it has been loaded with smokeless powder exclusively since about 1940. In the U.S. Colt, Harrington & Richardson, Hopkins & Allen, Iver Johnson, Smith & Wesson and others have made various light revolvers for this cartridge. In England , Webley & Scott made revolvers for it and in Europe the Bayard and Pickert revolvers plus odd brands chambered it.
HJN
[This message has been edited by Harley Nolden (edited September 05, 2000).]
[This message has been edited by Harley Nolden (edited September 05, 2000).]