Original German Empire Bavarian Artillery Regiment Marked M1879 Reichsrevolver by Suhl Consortium – Serial 1115 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers, and this is a rare Navy Issued example. The M1879 Reichsrevolver, or Reichs-Commissions-Revolver Modell 1879, was a service revolver used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when it was superseded by the Luger. The Model of 1879 was issued with a 7″ 10.6mm x 25R mm Barrel, which sported a rather fancy ring to the muzzle. In 1883 they introduced a shorter barrel version that had only a 5″ barrel, the M1883. Although the design was dated, the weapon was extremely robust, and they were still used through World War I. The M1879 is referred to as the “cavalry model” and the M1883 as the “officer’s model,” by collectors, which were not official designations.

These revolvers were single action only and were fitted with a robust safety lever on the left hand side of the frame, which functions differently depending on hammer position. If the hammer is in the fire position, the safety locks the hammer completely. If in the half-cock position, it locks the hammer there, facilitating reloading of the revolver or removal of the cylinder. They also have a very robust ring on the bottom of the grip, for securing the revolver to the uniform.

There were made by various different makers, and this example is marked S & S. V.C.S. C.G.H over SUHL. This is the marking of the Suhl consortium of arms makers consisting of Spangenberg & Sauer, V.C Schilling & Cie and C.G. Haenel & Cie, who supplied Prussia, Bavaria and Saxony. There is also an 1882 date on the left side of the barrel trunion.

Our Revolver bears serial number 1115 on almost all parts of the revolver including the inside of the grips grips, with shortened number 15 on the smaller parts. The cylinder however is marked 9487, so it is an arsenal replacement.

There are various proof marks on most parts, was was standard for German issued weapons. It is also marked two Bavarian regimental designations: B. R. A. M. 1. 1., which is crossed out, and B. 2. R. A. 5. 50., which we believe indicates issue to an artillery regiment, though we do not know if this would indicate field or foot artillery. Both have the stylized “R” that indicates these were both reserve units. There may have been other designations previously, which were removed. Definitely a great research opportunity for those so inclined.

The grips are in excellent condition, and the metalwork has a lovely faded patina, with some plum color in areas. White paint has been used to enhance the markings in many areas.  Bore is mostly bright with clear lands and grooves, the loading gate works perfectly, and mechanically the action is very tight.

In full working order, very substantial and a great example of a solid German design. Ready to display.

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 7 inches
Overall Length: 14 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these.