Item:
ON6267

Original U.S. Civil War Era Merwin & Bray Cupfire Brass Frame Revolver Converted to .44 - c.1870

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. Starting life between 1863 and 1873 this was manufactured as a CUP-FIRE Revolver. MERWIN & BRAY, run by Ellis & White developed this CUP FIRE System to get around the Smith & Wesson Patent of a drilled through cylinder allowing loading from the rear. This CUP FIRE system required loading from the front of the cylinder, in reverse so to speak. The rear of the cylinder only had a small hole to allow the firing pin to protrude onto the rear of the Cup Fire Cartridge. Initially the largest caliber was .42".

Our example, although of the early production, has been converted after 1873 to being .44 Caliber, requiring the cylinder to be removed for loading by removing the central axis pin to access the cylinder. Our modified /converted Revolver was then able to shoot regular .44 Caliber cartridges, prolonging its active life during the OLD WEST.

Modification marks still apparent and the cylinder revolving Hand Spring in need of attention. Octagonal 6" barrel, all brass frame with serial number 3559 on the bottom of the grip. Barrel side marked :-

MERWIN & BRAY, NEW YORK

and on the top of the barrel:-

PLANT'S MFG. CO. NEW HAVEN

There are also traces of the original patent marks on the side of the cylinder, and the front of the frame shows a few traces of the original nickel plating. The revolver functions well, but definitely is finicky, and sold for display purposes only.

A rare revolver seldom seen today which was later updated in the old West. Ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1863-1873
Caliber: 44
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 6  inches

Overall Length: 11 inches
Action: Single Action
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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

    This product is not available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

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