Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers, and this is a rare Artillery Issued example. It even comes with a period leather holster, indicating possible post-military service in German East Africa. The M1879 and M1883 Reichsrevolvers, or Reichs-Commissions-Revolver Modell 1879 and 1883, were service revolvers used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when they were superseded by the Luger. The Model of 1879 was issued with a 7" 10.6mm x 25R mm Barrel, which sported a rather fancy ring to the muzzle. In 1883 they introduced a shorter barrel version that had only a 5" barrel, the M1883. Although the design was dated, the weapon was extremely robust, and they were still used through World War I. The M1879 is referred to as the "cavalry model" and the M1883 as the "officer's model," by collectors, which were not official designations.

These revolvers were single action only and were fitted with a robust safety lever on the left hand side of the frame, which functions differently depending on hammer position. If the hammer is in the fire position, the safety locks the hammer completely. If in the half-cock position, it locks the hammer there, facilitating reloading of the revolver or removal of the cylinder. They also have a very robust ring on the bottom of the grip, for securing the revolver to the uniform.

There were made by various different makers, and this example is marked CROWN / ERFURT / 18943, indicating manufacture at the Imperial Arsenal in Erfurt Germany during 1894. Our Revolver also bears serial number 8240 l on the barrel, frame, left side plate, and the rear of the cylinder. Some of the screws and fittings are also marked with shortened number 40, while others are non-matching. It is also marked with the caliber 10,55 on the left side of the barrel, indicating the caliber, and there are various proof marks on the different parts of the gun.

The grip frame is marked with the Crown / FW proof on the butt, for German Emperor Wilhelm I, who used this cypher during his reign 1861-1888. Next to this is the regimental designation 21. A. 5. 11., indicating issue to the 21st (1st Upper Silesian) Field Artillery "von Clausewitz" Regiment, 5th Squadron, 11th weapon. This unit was first raised 24 October 1872, after the creation of the German Empire, and garrisoned in Neiße, Grottkau, today part of Poland. Definitely some great research potential here!

The revolver is in very good service used condition, and the metalwork condition is solid. Many parts of the revolver still show the original deep blue finish, with other areas worn to a gray patina. The grips are in very nice shape with a lovely color, though they do show wear, and the original lanyard ring is missing. The screw that holds the grip scales on is also currently rust seized, and shows some deformation of the slot, which was like that when we received it.

The bore is mostly bright, showing clear lands and grooves, as well as scattered oxidation in the grooves from use and/or lack of cleaning. The loading gate works perfectly, and the gun has a functional loading position. However, it looks like the hand spring is missing or broken, so the cylinder will only cycle when the revolver is pointed downwards, where gravity helps it engage the ratchet. The cylinder lockup is strong as well, and the safety functions correctly. The cylinder arbor pin has a slight bend to it, so it requires the use of a brass drift and a hammer to remove.

The included brown leather holster is in very good condition, and looks to be from the early 20th century. This would put it right in period for issue in German East Africa, where obsolete weapons were often used, as they were still far superior to what the indigenous population were equipped with. It is marked 305A on the rear belt loop, and fits the holster well.

A very substantial and a great example of a solid German design, complete with an original holster! Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1894
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 10 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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