Original Item: Only One Available. Pepperbox revolvers were so named because of the similarity of the front view of the weapon was so reminiscent of a Pepper Pot / Grinder of the time being a circle of round holes. Recently acquired at a military auction, this is a very nice condition American manufactured Pepperbox percussion pistol utilizing the 1849 patent of William W. Marston. Most of these were manufactured in New York by Sprague & Marston sometime between 1850 and 1859. It definitely looks to have seen significant use, and the left action side plate was replaced with a cast white metal one at some point. It has a lovely patina, and makes a wonderful display piece.

The frame is engraved with floral scrolls and light engraving on the back strap and other metalwork, though wear and oxidation has made it faint in a lot of areas. The lovely figured walnut "bag" grips are held in place by a cross screw with brass escutcheons.

The barrel cluster is worn on the exterior, and the maker name has been worn off, but it is still marked with:

The markings on the bar hammer are also faded, but originally would have read W. MARSTON on the top, with PATENT 1849 on the left and NEW YORK on the right. The revolver is also marked with serial number 573 under the grips, and the barrel assembly has 73 stamped between two of the nipples.

The revolver does function well, though the barrel can spin almost freely when not being cycled. It indexes well, with the hammer striking correctly. The trigger return spring is a bit worn, so it does not return forward without being moved by hand.

A lovely service worn example of a hard to find pepper box revolver, ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1850-1859
Caliber: .31"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Overall Length: 9.2 inches
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Action: Percussion Cap
Feed System: Breech-Loaded - 6 barrels

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.

IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition, and are not tested for the the ability to feed or load any type of cartridge. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers" not for use, and we make no guarantees regarding functionality aside from what is stated in the description. Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.

Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.