Original U.S. 19th Century Stocking & Co. 28cal. Single-Action Bar Hammer Percussion Pepperbox Revolver Circa 1850 - Serial 32

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an example of the unusual firearm system known as the "PEPPERBOX" revolver, where instead of a cylinder with a single barrel, the gun features assembly of multiple barrels. They were so named because the muzzle is similar in appearance to the business end of a Pepper Pot from the the early days of Queen Victoria: a circle of round holes. In very nice used condition, .28 caliber six shot percussion pepperbox revolver was manufactured by Stocking & Co. of Worcester, Massachusetts during the early 1850s. It measures 7 1/2 inches in overall length, with a 3 1/2 inch long barrel/cylinder. It is quite nicely engraved on both sides of the action, as well as on the barrel's flash guard.

The revolver is marked with serial number 32 on the cylinder, trigger guard, frame under the grips, trigger, and on the main spring, though the grip scales are both marked 23, very possibly a typo. We would definitely consider this to be an "Mostly Matching" example, and we very much feel that the grip scales were simply mis-marked. It is also marked on the flats between the barrels with the maker information, which is in the reverse direction from what we are used to seeing:-

STOCKING & CO.    WORCESTER

WARRANTED           CAST-STEEL

The "bar hammer" on the top has the correct patent information on the left hand side:-

PATENT SECURED 1848

The grips are wood and look to possibly be rosewood due to the strong grain patterns, though it is more likely that they are simply strongly grained American Black Walnut. The revolver is single action only, and fitted with a long Cocking Spur "Bar Hammer" which upon depressing rotates the barrels to the next chamber. The trigger, inside its standard loop guard then discharges the weapon. We did not notice any deficiencies when cycling, and the nipple cones are all still intact.

In lovely condition, a very interesting early pepperbox design. Ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1845
Caliber: approx .28"
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 3 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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