Original Item: Only One Available. The Colt "Pocket Percussion" Model 1849 revolvers in .31cal are essentially scaled down versions of the larger Navy Model 1851 in .36cal, and were developed concurrently. The serial Number 245339 can be found on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and grip frame. The cylinder and barrel wedge are marked with 45339, while the cylinder arbor pin is marked with 533[9]. This makes this a very desirable "ALL MATCHING" example of the M1849 Pocket revolver, without any parts swapped out over the years.

The serial number indicates indicates the year of manufacture as 1863, during the middle of the U.S. Civil War, so it almost certainly saw service during the conflict. As this revolver has a serial number over 187000, it has a six round .31 caliber cylinder, instead of the previous five. It also features a long 6" barrel, and is in nice tight condition with nice aged finish on the steel. Additionally, over 50% of the original "Stagecoach Robbery" cylinder engraving can still be seen, which is usually completely worn away. The COLT'S PATENT marking is mostly intact as well. Often we see these with the markings completely removed from the cylinder, so this is a real treat!

The Colt New York single line address is still crisp and fully legible across the top of the octagonal barrel -

It also has the correct COLTS PATENT on the left frame under the cylinder, and is marked 31CAL on the left side of the trigger guard. The walnut grips are in very good shape, with a lovely color and the expected patina of age. They still have over 80% of the original "Piano Varnish" finish that was applied to these at the factory, with light wear on the bottom of the grips as usually seen, and some staining where the grips meet the frame.

The revolver functions well, with solid indexing and a firm cylinder lockup. We did not notice any of the usual finicky behavior we often see with revolvers of this age. There is just a bit of play in the barrel/frame connection, and it does look like the barrel / frame connection may have been adjusted at one point to keep the fit tight. The bore is in very good condition for a percussion revolver, with clear lands and grooves and a partly bright finish. There is oxidation and wear on the interior, and also a light ring about half day down the bore. The brass front sight is still present and in very good condition. All 6 cap nipple cones are intact and clear, though they do show some oxidation and powder burn to the exterior.

This is a very nice '49 Pocket dating from the Civil War, a very nice acquisition for any collection. In wonderful condition and ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1863
Caliber: .31cal
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Overall Length: 11 inches
Action: Single Action Percussion
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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