Rare Antique Mass Arms Co. Wesson & Leavitt Belt Revolver 31 Caliber

Description:
Serial #933, .31 Caliber black powder percussion, 3 ½ inch barrel with a fine bore with strong rifling showing some roughness toward the muzzle end. This is the Wesson's & Leavitt's Patent belt revolver manufactured by Massachusetts Arms Company, Chicopee Falls Mass circa 1850-1851 with total production estimated at about 1000. The unique design had a hinge on the top strap so that when released the barrel opens up to allow the cylinder to slide forward for removal to load. The top strap is marked "MASS ARMS CO. / CHICOPEE FALLS" with the frame reading "WESSON'S & LEVITT'S PATENT" and the cylinder base plate "WESSONS PATENT AUGUST 28, 1849". It was patterned identically to the .40 caliber Dragoon revolver they made but at a smaller size. In very good to near fine condition the barrel and latch retain about 15-20% of the original bright blue with the balance including the cylinder and frame toning from plum-brown to pewter-gray having excellent detail in the engraving portions. The grip strap and trigger-guard show much of the original silver plate and the original walnut grips are solid showing a very old professional repair to the right stock. The action remains strong with proper indexing holding at half and full cock. A rare gun manufactured in the short period of innovation before the metallic cartridge ruled the handgun world. Antique

Antique: Yes

Price: $1,495.00