*British, Mid-19th Century, Percussion Pepperbox Revolver, Six-Shot Pocket Size, Obsolete Calibre*
A compact British percussion pepperbox revolver dating to the mid-19th century, of the classic six-shot pocket pattern with fluted barrel cluster and bar-hammer action. The revolver is of iron construction with a rounded walnut grip secured by a central screw and fitted with a ring-form trigger guard. The frame is decorated with foliate scroll engraving, now softened through age but still clearly visible.
The multi-barrel cluster rotates with the trigger pull in typical double-action pepperbox fashion, with the percussion nipples positioned between the barrels. The overall form, proportions, and construction are entirely consistent with commercially produced English pocket revolvers intended for civilian self-defence during the transitional period prior to widespread adoption of cartridge revolvers.
The barrel cluster bears British proof marks including Crown over GP (Gunmakers’ Proof) and Crown over V (View mark), confirming the piece was proofed and inspected under British proof regulations. These crowned proof and inspection marks were in use throughout the percussion era, most commonly encountered on commercially produced firearms from approximately the 1810s through to the 1860s, before later Victorian proof mark format changes. No retailer or maker’s name is visible.
Approx. Measurements – Barrel cluster length: 7.5 cm. Overall length: 19 cm.
Historical Note:
Percussion pepperbox revolvers were widely carried throughout the 1830s–1850s as affordable and practical personal defence arms. Their simple rotating barrel cluster and double-action mechanism made them reliable at close range, and they were commonly purchased privately by travellers, shopkeepers, and gentlemen for pocket carry. By the late 1850s this type was gradually superseded by more advanced revolver designs such as the Adams, Tranter, and later cartridge systems, placing examples like this firmly within the pre-cartridge era of British firearms development.
*Condition*
Overall a well-preserved and honest example showing age-consistent wear. The metal surfaces retain an even grey-brown patina with scattered light pitting, particularly to the barrel cluster. Engraving remains visible across the frame. The walnut grip is original with good colour and handling marks from use. The nipples are present, and the mechanism appears complete, with the revolver cocking, indexing, and dry-firing. No modern refinishing observed. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQWB_DEO_1555228766
