Mid 19th Century Cased American Teat Fire Revolver in 0.32" Calibre By Daniel Moore And David Williamson.
The "Teat Fire" metal cartridge came about as an attempt to bypass the Smith & Wesson patenting laws of the time.......and it was successful with approximately 20,000 of the estimated 30,000 total number of these revolvers being produced in the first year or so.
It has a florally engraved silver (white metal) plated frame which is worn in places to reveal the brass beneath with a blued barrel and cylinder. Much of this bluing has gone from the barrel, but the cylinder retains much of its colour. It also has a 2 piece hardwood bird beak grip.
There were several production runs of this pistol and later ones carried a hook type ejector rod, but this is an earlier model dating to probably 1864 or 1865 that carries a simple swivel catch that could be released to enable loading and ejection of the cartridge.
The steelwork is in good condition with the barrel, spur trigger and trigger having a grey patina, whilst the cylinder (as mentioned above) retains much of its original colouration.
It is single action only in operation and although the mainspring is strong and the action operates correctly, the cylinder does not cycle when the hammer is pulled back.
The lettering is small but the barrel and cylinder engraving is very clear with "Moores Pat Firearms Co Brooklyn NY" and around the cylinder "D Williamson Patent January 5 1864".
Production of this pistol ran from 1864 to 1870 and in 1871 the company was purchased by Colt and production ceased.
This neat little pistol is contained in a small red velvet lined wooden case which has no compartments for accessories, but what looks to be a holed wooden plate meant to hold cartridges.
The case is in good condition except for the missing key escutcheon and there being no key.
Going back to the pistol, it is in great shape with the only issue being the non cycling cylinder.
Barrel length 8cm, Overall length 18cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable, ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
