Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers! 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Modell 1879 and 1883, were service revolvers used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when they were superseded by the Luger.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 somewhat faintly with CROWN / ERFURT / 1894 on the left frame, indicating manufacture at the Imperial Arsenal in Erfurt Germany during 1894. It looks like the marking was not struck as hard when added, as it is quite shallow compared to the other markings, as we often see. Our Revolver also bears ALL MATCHING serial number 9545 / f on all major parts of the gun, even on the inside of the grip scales (545) and the small screws (45). It is also marked with the caliber 10,6 on the left side of the barrel, 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. The back strap of the gun is marked with regimental designation 80. A. 4. 20., for the 80th (3rd Upper Alsatian) Field Artillery Regiment, first raised 1 October 1912 and Garrisoned in Alsace, today part of France. This was most likely not the first unit that this revolver was issued to, as it was not created until about 20 years after the revolver was made. We leave this as an excellent research opportunity for the new owner.

The revolver is in very good 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 plum patina, and many of the markings have been highlighted with white paint. The bore is in very good condition, showing a bright finish with crisp lands and grooves. There is just some light wear and evidence of past oxidation and fouling. The loading gate works perfectly, and mechanically the action is very tight. The cylinder arbor pin can still be removed relatively easily. The grips are in very nice shape with a lovely color, and the original lanyard ring is still present.

In full working order, very substantial and a great example of a solid German design. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 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

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.