Original item. Only One Available. The Pinfire system was the earliest form of “Cartridge” developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. However, the firing system was never as popular as might have been expected. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860’s regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced.
This example looks to be a Austrian Gasser M1860 Style pinfire revolver, with a 5 3/4 inch long barrel, and overall length of 9 inches. It looks to be in the standard 11mm pinfire calibre developed by Casimir Lefaucheux. These LARGE revolvers were very much favored in the Balkan State of MONTENEGRO in the mid-late 19th century. They were almost considered as men’s jewelry. It has very nice original checkered walnut “bag” grips, which have some lovely mother of pearl inlays, certainly added after original manufacture. The grips show little wear and have a lovely color, indicating only light use, and the lanyard ring is still present.
The owner apparently added their name to the top of the barrel, along with a date, which we have attempted to read:
A. R. Tristin 1875.
The original bright steel finish is quite nice, though there are signs of past cleaning and oxidation. The revolver comes complete with ejector rod for ejecting spent cartridges. The revolver comes complete with ejector rod for ejecting spent cartridges. The loading gate is still fully functional, with a working closure catch spring. The revolver functions well in double and single action, with good indexing and lockup. There is even a safety spring to prevent the hammer falling during reloading. The barrel has 6 groove rifling, which is still very well retained, with just a bit of oxidation.
Ready to display!
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: circa 1860
Caliber: 11mm
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 11 inches
Barrel Length: 5 3/4 inches
Action: Double Action Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver
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