The Manhattan Firearms Company began manufacturing in 1853, mainly producing copies of Ethan Allen’s pistols before changing its name to the American Standard Tool Company in 1868 and disappearing in 1873.
With the expiration of Colt’s master patent in 1858 and like many others, the Manhattan Firearms Company began production of percussion revolvers. While essentially a copy of the Colt, the Manhattan Navy has a unique safety feature, the Gruler and Rebety patent of 1859. This feature was the intermediate cylinder stop which locks the cylinder in place when the hammer is lowered between the nipples, allowing the revolver to be safely carried while loaded.
Offered here is a five shot, Series III, Manhattan Navy percussion revolver in a very excellent condition.
The octagonal, .36 caliber, 6 ½ inch barrel is clearly marked ‘MANHATTAN FIRE ARMS CO. NEWARK N.J.’
The five shot cylinder with its 10-cylinder stops is in very good condition with all the five panel scenes and the ‘DEC 27. 1859’ patent date clearly visible. Apart from some fading and very slight wear, the bluing on the frame, barrel and cylinder is strong.
The serial number of ‘29920’ is clearly visible on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The silvering on the trigger guard and back strap is almost 100%. See photos.
The walnut grips are in excellent condition with no loss of the original varnish.
This Manhattan also comes with a very good period holster made by George Lawrence of Portland, Oregon.
All in all, this is one of the best Manhattan percussion revolvers that you will ever come across.
Sold as collector item only.
Price includes shipping in Australia, layby available.
Please be aware that there are licensing requirements for this item in some jurisdictions.