Original item. Only One Available. The Pinfire system was the earliest form of "Cartridge" developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860's regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced.

This is a very nice Spanish made example of a pinfire revolver, which follows the French design closely, including the lovely checkered 'bag" shaped grip. This example was manufactured in Eibar, Spain, which during the 19th century had a sizable gun industry. It is marked on the top of the barrel by the maker:

FRANCISCO
LARRAÑAGA
EIBAR

We have unfortunately not been able to find much information on this maker, though we have found other examples of their work making Lefaucheux style revolvers. The name is somewhat common so we also found a lot of other search results unrelated to this specific person. There are the initials JM on the top of the barrel, most likely from the owner.

This example is fitted a 5 1/2 inch long barrel, and overall length of 10 inches. Like other "private purchase" examples we have seen, it has a folding trigger, which would make it easier to fit into a pocket. The original metal finish looks to have been bright steel, which is still well preserved, with only a bit of staining and peppering. The revolver comes complete with ejector rod for ejecting spent cartridges. The loading gate is still fully functional, with a working closure catch.

It has very nice original checkered and carved walnut grips, which have a great color and show moderate wear. The lanyard loop on the bottom of the grip is still intact. The revolver functions well in double action only, with good indexing. It does not appear to have been designed to function in single action, even though the hammer does have a spur. The barrel has 4 groove rifling, which is still very well retained, showing a bright finish with just a bit of wear and oxidation in areas.

Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 11mm
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 10 inches
Barrel Length: 5 1/2 inches
Action: Double Action 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.