Item:
ONSV9038

Original Imperial German M1883 Reichsrevolver by Erfurt dated 1894 - Serial 5857 l

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers, and this is a rare Navy Issued example. 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Modell 1879 and 1883, were service revolvers used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when they were superseded by the Luger.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 / 1894, indicating manufacture at the Imperial Arsenel in Erfurt Germany in 1894. Our Revolver also bears all matching serial number 5857 / l, even on the inside of the grip scales (857) and the small screws (57). There are various proof marks on the different parts of the gun. The pommel plate is is marked with the Crown / FW proof on the butt, for German Emperor Wilhelm II, I, who used the F.W. monogram, just as his grandfather Wilhelm I had.

The back strap of the grip is marked with German regimental designation L. M. 2. R. 7., however we unfortunately have not been able to identify this unit. The stylized "R" indicates that it was some type of reserve unit. A great research opportunity!

The revolver is in very good condition, and still has a lot of the original polished blue finish, with other components being bright steel. Bore is bright with clear lands and grooves, with very little sign of wear. The action is tight and works well, though unfortunately the loading gate on this revolver is missing. Also it looks as though the lanyard ring is a "split ring" style like on a keychain, so it is most likely a replacement.

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

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  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

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