Original U.S. Colt 3rd Model "Thuer" Single Shot Derringer in .41 Caliber Rimfire - Matching Serial 17111

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic example of Colt's Third Model .41cal Single Shot Derringer Pistol, possibly the best example that we have ever seen! Often called the "Thuer" model or "New Model" derringer, Colt had originally gotten into the Single Shot derringer market through their purchase of the National Arms company in 1870. Their design utilized a rotating barrel, and Colt started production immediately, giving rise to the 1st and 2nd models of the pistol.

However, at around the same time time, Colt employee F. Alexander Thuer made an entirely different design, which was subsequently patented. This became known as the "Third Model", but also was known as the "Thuer Model" after the designer. It utilized a pivoting barrel that swings the breech to the right, which also actuates the extractor. There was no annoying barrel release button to push, as only a detent and ball mechanism keeps the barrel closed, with the hammer preventing opening in the fully forward position. This ended up being a much easier system to use than the other models, and the third model was by far the most popular after it was introduced in 1875.

This example is great condition, showing light wear from service and cleaning, and the blued brass barrel does show some wear and past oxidation. However, unlike most we see, this example still has most of the nickel plating on the brass frame still retained! There is wear around the grip area and on the left rear of the frame, but otherwise the plating is quite sound, with even more retained under the grips! The top of the barrel still bears a clear large - COLT - marking on the top. The brass frame still bears the original 41 CAL marking on the left side, and on the left side under the grips is marked with serial number 17111. This matches the serial number stamped on the underside of the barrel, which can only be clearly seen by removing the barrel screw, and 7111 is faintly written with pencil on the inside of both grips. That makes this a very nice "ALL MATCHING" example, with no parts swapped out over the years!

The action opens and closes correctly, and the extractor / ejector is fully functional, popping out the breech latch with an additional pull to the side. We almost never see these still functional! The action works well, with the hammer having a proper half cock position for loading, which holds when the trigger is pulled. The bore is in very good condition, showing a mostly bright finish with clear lands and grooves. There is some past fouling and oxidation in the chamber, but overall this is a great bore for one of these tiny revolvers. The grips are lovely as well, still showing almost all of the original "piano varnish" finish and a lovely red brown color.

A great example of a lovely concealable pocket pistol from the late 19th century, ready to display!

Specifications:

Years of Manufacture: circa 1885
Caliber: .41cal
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 2 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 4 7/8 inches
Action: Pivoting Barrel
Feed System: Single Shot

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