Guns International #: 103233705

Category - Antique Pistols - Cartridge - Rimfire American Pistols

Category
Antique Pistols - Cartridge
Rimfire American Pistols

Very Rare American Arms Co. Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol in .41RF Less than 400 units produced in that caliber


Description:
Very Rare American Arms Co. Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol .41RF
General Overview:
This American Arms Co. Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol is a rare and fascinating piece of firearm history. Known for its innovative design, this pistol was produced between 1866 and 1878, with fewer than 400 examples made in the .41 RF (rimfire) caliber. The swivel breech mechanism, which allows the barrels to manually rotate for loading and firing, makes this an especially unique and desirable collectible.
This example, serial number 1042, features a 2 5/8" fluted octagon barrel and has a gunmetal gray patina indicative of its age and use. The silver-plated brass frame, while mostly worn, adds a distinctive visual appeal with an ochre patina. Despite some cosmetic repairs to the grips, the pistol remains in excellent mechanical condition, with strong lock-up and a smooth action.
Specifications:

• Manufacturer: American Arms Co.
• Model: Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol
• Serial Number: 1042
• Caliber: .41 RF (Rimfire)
• Barrel Length: 2 5/8 inches
• Barrel Type: Fluted Octagon
• Frame Material: Silver-plated brass (worn to an ochre patina)
• Finish: Gunmetal gray patina
• Grips: Walnut Wood grips with repairs, cracks from top to bottom on both sides
• Mechanism: Double barrel with manual swivel breech rotation for loading and firing
• Year of Manufacture: 1866-1878
• Condition:
  • Barrels: Lightly pitted from black powder use, but still retain strong rifling
  • Frame: Silver plating mostly worn off, leaving a rich ochre brass patina
  • Grips: Repaired with cracks visible on both sides; structurally sound but cosmetically affected
  • Mechanics: Excellent; barrels rotate smoothly, hammer spring strong, and barrel to frame lock-up is tight

Historical Background:
American Arms Co. (1866–1878):
American Arms Co., based in New York, was a relatively short-lived but innovative arms manufacturer that specialized in producing high-quality pistols and firearms during the post-Civil War era. Their focus was on crafting compact, well-engineered, and distinctive firearms, which attracted a niche market.
The double barrel swivel breech design was one of their most unique offerings, representing an early form of the “over-under” mechanism that would later become common in shotguns. This mechanism allowed for a more compact design, which was an advantage in both civilian self-defense and as a sidearm for military personnel. Though the American Arms Co. did not produce firearms in large quantities (especially compared to more well-known manufacturers like Colt or Remington), their designs were notable for their craftsmanship and advanced features.
The .41 RF caliber was one of several rimfire calibers produced at the time, and though it was commonly used for small revolvers and pistols, it is particularly rare in the swivel breech design. The small production run of fewer than 400 pistols in this caliber makes this a particularly rare and sought-after collector's item.
Features:

• Swivel Breech Design: The manual rotation of the barrels for loading and firing is a notable feature of the design. This early innovation allowed for a compact pistol capable of firing multiple shots in quick succession, making it one of the more unique designs of its time.
• .41 Rimfire Caliber: The .41 RF caliber was widely used in the late 19th century for pocket pistols and small revolvers. However, the American Arms Co. Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol is especially rare in this caliber, with fewer than 400 pistols produced in total, making it a highly coveted piece among collectors.
• Barrel Condition: While the barrels show light pitting from black powder use, they still retain strong rifling, which suggests that this pistol was likely well-maintained during its period of use. The slight pitting is typical of guns used with black powder, and it does not significantly affect the mechanical function or performance.
• Frame Condition: The silver-plated brass frame has mostly worn off, leaving behind a beautiful ochre brass patina that adds to the historical charm and visual appeal of the pistol.
• Grips Condition: The grips have been repaired, with cracks running from top to bottom on both sides. While this affects the aesthetic condition, the grips are still structurally sound, and the repairs have helped maintain their functionality.
• Mechanics: The pistol operates excellently—the barrels rotate smoothly as designed, the hammer spring is strong, and the barrel-to-frame lock-up is solid. Despite the cosmetic wear, the mechanical integrity of this pistol remains exceptional.

Given its extremely rare production and unique swivel breech mechanism, the American Arms Co. Double Barrel Swivel Breech Pistol is a highly collectible item, especially in .41 RF caliber. The historical importance of this pistol, along with its rarity (fewer than 400 produced), makes it a prime candidate for inclusion in any collection of 19th-century American firearms.
The pistol’s good mechanical condition, combined with its unique design and rarity, ensures that it will continue to appreciate in value among collectors. The addition of a small maroon felt-lined case with a glass top further enhances its presentation and makes it an ideal piece for display.
1.   This firearm is an antique and no FFL is required. CA sales ok.   Please include an ID for proof of age, unless you have purchased from me in the past.
2.   It is your responsibility to make sure the item is legal in your state and you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase.
3.  USPS priority shipping will be provided for a flat rate of $15.00.  
4.  This gun is sold "as-is" as a collectible with no warranty express or implied. and no returns.
5.  Payment can be made with bank check, postal, money order, or personal check and must be sent within 7 days of close.For instant payment please contact me for account info and item will be shipped as soon as funds are receive. An email with tracking number will be sent as soon as item is shipped.

Antique: Yes
Handgun Caliber: .41 Rimfire
Manufacturer: American Arms
Model: Double barrel pistol
Serial Number: 1042
Barrel Length: 3

Price: $749.00