At the gunshow today, I picked up a Colt Detective Special .38 spl., Ser # 88XXXX, good condition - looks real good, locks up tight, sweeeeeet DA trigger, for $230 in a private sale.

Got an S&W .38 spl DA, 4" bbl, Pat. dates '06, '09, '14 (pre- numeric model designation). Some blue, mostly patina, great action, great bore, Ser # 55XXXX for $160 incl tax & call-in.

I was fresh out of .38 revolvers. How'd I do?

Weeeeell, now. Shoulda looked closer before I shucked off the bills. The Colt is not a .38 spl (though it was handed to me in response my request "can I see that .38? The Colt?" It is a .32 Colt N.P. Anybody know if .32 spl or .32 long will work in it?

Quoted:Anybody know if .32 spl or .32 long will work in it?

According to Hornady 5th Edition  "The differences between the S&W Long and the Colt cartridge are minimal, exisiting only in bullet shape and powder charge.  They can be used interchangeably, and either gun can shoot the shorter 32 Smith & Wesson.