Mid 19th Century American Allen & Wheelock Percussion Cap Side Hammer Navy Revolver With An 8" Barrel
A rare and interesting piece of American Civil War history in this huge 8" barrel version.
There is thought to have been between 750-1000 of these pistols produced and over the last 160+ years natural losses have brought that number down even further.
I have checked several serial numbers and the cylinder, trigger guard, frame and walnut grips match with 398.
An interesting feature of this model is the hinged trigger guard which doubles up as the loading rammer. Early models had a friction catch to keep it closed, but this one is fitted with the later model spring clip.
On the left of the barrel is stamped" Allen & Wheelock. Worcester. Mass. U.S" and beneath that "Allens Pt's. Jan 13. Dec15. 1857, Sept 7. 185? (I believe this should be 1858, but the last digit was either not struck or has worn away).
It has a beautiful roll engraved scene on the cylinder of countryside with several deer and a rabbit.
This piece is even more unusual in that it has been nickel plated, but as this process only became perfected in the mid 1860's this was an aftermarket process carried out by its owner. Thankfully it was done well and the stamps and engraving are still well defined. It has worn away in several areas, but is still in great condition.
It is a single action revolver and the mainspring is good with the action being super crisp in half and full position.
The walnut grips are in great condition with only a few bruises and no splits or cracks.
A rare revolver made even more so with the largest available 8" barrel.
Barrel length 20cm, Overall length 34.5cm.
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
