The Surprisingly Modern Colt 1903

Lot 1453: Excellent Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol with Original Box and Papers
(Lot 1468 is another pristine example of a 1908 in its original box)

At the 2015 Shot Show in Las Vegas there was the usual hullabaloo around a lot of new guns and gadgets, and rightly so.  For those unfamiliar, Shot Show is basically the Detroit Auto Show of the gun world. It's on par with the biggest industry shows in the country: E3, CES, Comic-Con, NRA Convention, etc. Annually, new stuff gets unveiled before throngs of both the passionate and the curious. However, one little pistol stuck out at Shot2015 that was not the usual piece of innovative technology.  In fact, its roots go back over 100 years.  Needless to say, the presence of a Colt Model 1903 "General Officer's Pistol" surprised more than a few people.

Also known as the 1903 Pocket Hammerless, even though they possess a shrouded hammer, these classy little pistols are perhaps more at home in today's world of concealed carry options than most folks recognize. Here's how it compares side-by-side with the Glock 43, arguably one of the most anticipated handguns in recent memory.

The larger of the Colt measurements pertain solely to the first variation of the Colt 1903, which
accounted for the first 71,999 produced.

Glocks are frequently heralded for their utilitarian nature, but at over one century old, the Colt still holds its own. In addition to the comparable dimensions, the 1903 has something else going for it that newer pistols simply cannot match: history.

Original Models

Designed by John Moses Browning and initially called Model M by Colt, these "hammerless" pistols were made for over four decades (1903 - 1945) with approximately 572,215 entering civilian production and 200,000 more for the military. They were immediately popular with the public, and approximately 10,000 were sold in the first year. Even though production stopped in 1945, so many parts had been produced that they continued to be assembled until 1953, and were issued to general officers in the Army and Air Force as late as the 1970s. These totals include all five variations of the 1903. The Model 1908 was a nearly identical pistol in .380 ACP that differed only in chamber/bore size and magazine capacity.  The larger round of the Model 1908 meant that only 7 rounds could fit in the magazine, but the new cartridge, developed by John Browning for the Colt 1908, could not compete with the popularity of the .32 ACP that had been in production since 1899. Only 138,000 Model 1908 pistols were sold retail and an unknown amount were made for military contracts.

The smooth lines and relative small size, compared to other early semi-autos, made the Model 1903 a hit with good guys and bad guys alike. Besides being issued to general officers in the military the pistol also saw service with the Shanghai Municipal Police (M1908) in the 1920s and 1930s, including by noted knife fighter, secret agent, commando, and all-around dangerous guy, William Fairbairn. Pistols used in Shanghai are clearly marked as such and are likely to have seen heavy use given the infestation of crime the city during the early 20th century. Perhaps it was Fairbairn's positive experience with the Model 1908 that led to its use by both the OSS, a precursor of the CIA, and the British SOE, both organizations that greatly valued Fairbairn's covert contributions. George Patton was also known to own a 1908 Pocket Hammerless.

Lot 1476: Scarce Documented Shanghai Municipal Police Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol with Factory Letter

However, the same advantages that made it so desirable to many police departments, including the NYPD, also made it popular among criminals of the day. Bonnie Parker of "Bonnie & Clyde" infamy had two with her the day they were gunned down in their V8-powered Ford. John Dillinger, despite his affinity for .45 caliber weapons, and a well-known quote of, "Never trust a woman, a district attorney, or an automatic pistol," was photographed wearing a Model 1908 and was killed with one on his person.

New Models

At Shot Show 2015, Colt had a Model 1903 at their booth.  There was no grand reveal, no unveiling, hype, or fanfare.  Just a pistol displayed under glass and one being shown by one of the creators in the massive Colt booth. The full story is that Colt contracted U.S. Armament Corp to make a licensed copy of the 1903 pocket hammerless general officer's pistol.  This U.S. Armament Corp is the same organization that made exact replicas of the Colt Model 1877 "Bulldog" Gatling gun several years back.  Not only are the Gatling guns gorgeous with their highly polished brass and walnut, the reproductions are said to be so exact that parts of the originals and the reproductions are said to be interchangeable. That's the kind of precision and attention to authenticity U.S. Armament brings to the table when reproducing the Colt Model 1903 pistols.  (Note: According to USAC, the parts of the new pistols may or may not fit the original Colt pistols because many of the original Colt pistols were hand fitted, as are the parts for the reproductions. Sometimes, even original parts don't properly fit on original guns.)

That said, the guns are reproduced with most of their imperfections.  The grip safety that some users found difficult to activate appears in its original form. The right-handed, manual safety that offers no tactile or audible feedback, yet is easy enough to use, is still a simple checkered lever with a smooth pivot. The small sights, curiously prevalent among guns of that period, have not been enlarged. No push button magazine release has been added, so the original heel release must be used. Also since the Model 1903 pre-dates the 1911, the slide does not lock open on the final shot, nor is there accompanying slide release for such a feature. Those wishing to carry this gun as an alternative to modern concealed carry options will be pleased at the authenticity, but may also wish to consider the lack of many common and desirable features.

Image from www.usarmamentcorp.com

The only true downside to the reproduction of these once popular little pistols will be the limited run. initial reports after Shot Show 2015 were that 2,500 of these pistols were going to be produced, 500 of which would be GO-issued pistols. A quick call to USAC reveals that those numbers have been updated. Now, a total run of 3,500 pistols will be produced. 2,500 will be parkerized general officer's pistols, and 500 of those will be "presentation" models with serial number duplicates to those issued to specific U.S. Generals, deluxe presentation cases, and information on that specific general. It is likely that those serial numbers issued to the most famous generals (Patton, Eisenhower, Bradley, etc) will likely be donated or presented. The remaining 1,000 pistols are going to be shipped in the white to Colt's Custom Shop where they will undoubtedly get any number of special grips, finishes, engravings, and inlays. Also disclosed at Shot Show was the base price of $1,395. In comparison, original models of the 1903 and 1908 in our December auction have low estimates ranging from $800 - $6,500.  Those guns will be shipped with one mag in the military style kraft boxes, with wax pencil serial numbers on the box to boot. Model 1908 pistols will come later (likely 12 - 18 months out) with a limited production run of approximately 5,000. Before you can ask: no, Colt Pythons reproductions are not planned at this time despite the immense number of requests for the wheelgun.

New Info on the New Model

What has not yet been discussed or divulged is the possibility of USAC producing a special "OSS Presentation" version of the pistol. This gun would likely receive its own presentation case and some OSS related goodies, but would also be able to accept a suppressor! USAC says that the suppressor (as of this writing) would likely be outsourced, but the pistol itself would involve a longer, threaded barrel produced in-house. As if a popular old gun receiving its due renaissance isn't cool enough, USAC will potentially take it one step further by giving a very visible modern nod to the pistol's clandestine past. That is one idea that this writer personally hopes makes it all the way into final production, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Timeline for such a piece would be roughly 12 - 18 months.

Photo taken from the USAC Facebook page, and not, unfortunately, from my desk.

Speaking of timelines, I spoke with Jake Nyman, Vice President of USAC, with a few clarifying questions regarding these reproductions. Of course, one of the questions I asked was if the timeframe for the 1903 was still correct. He gave details of the production that are perhaps not what people anticipate.  His answer was that a run of 3,500 guns is still anticipated (though an extension of the license with Colt may be sought for the aforementioned "OSS version"). However, the way he answered it communicated that these guns are not being "released" en masse like the latest iPhone. There is no set "release date." These guns are being carefully hand-fitted and will take time to produce.  With some very recent hiring at USAC to build these guns more quickly, rate of manufacture should ramp up to about 100-120 guns per month, meaning about two more years of production. For those wondering, yes, that means these reproductions are already being sold.

Image on unpacked Model 1903, also from USAC Facebook page.

On a side note, the original Model 1903 pistols are said to lack a mechanical firing pin safety and can discharge if dropped hard enough on its muzzle or rear of the slide. The inertia of such an drop has been known to whip the firing pin forward and touch off a chambered round.  This is also the alleged reason for Fairbairn not permitting the Shangai Police to carry with a round in the chamber. Since USAC is known for their dedication to authenticity and accuracy in these reproductions, I asked Mr. Nyman about this design flaw and whether improvements had been made or they stayed 100% true to the old design.

Jake gave an answer that showed a little of each was taking place. A firing pin safety had not been added to the pistol design in order to maintain authenticity, but he did assure me that the sear and hammer pockets were deepened to prevent the accidental discharges. He said, "We and Colt have put this pistol through every drop test you can imagine," with no experienced failures.

Models Appearing in Our 2015 December Auction

It should come as no surprise that the reason we decided to write about these sleek little pistols, in addition to their surprising modern relevancy, is the amount of exceptional examples in our upcoming 2015 December Premiere Firearms Auction. One collection, that of Ralf Eyster, focuses entirely on these pistols. Here are a few of the highlights appearing in this sale.

Lot 3593: Historic Documented U.S. Property Marked Colt Model 1903 Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol as Issued to Brigadier General Joseph L. Bernier with Original Wooden Shipping Crate

Lot 1454: Documented Factory Engraved Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol with Letter

Lot 1452: Scarce Factory Documented OSS Shipped U.S. Property Marked Colt Model 1903 Pocket Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol with Boxed OSS-Pattern Concealment Holster and Two "Cloak and Dagger" Pattern Patches

Lot 3591: Exceptional U.S. Military Colt Model 1903 Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol

Lot 3571: Wolf and Klar Shipped Colt Model 1908 Pocket Hammerless Semi-Automatic Pistol with Box and Factory Letter

Lot 1680: Exceptional U.S. Property Marked Colt Model 1908 .380 Hammerless Pocket Automatic Pistol with Ammunition Pouch and Spare Magazines

Not only are Model 1903 and 1908 pistols still relevant today, they basically set several standards upon their introduction. Their ability to be concealed and streamlined shape gave them practicality beyond their years. The popularity of the gun and its early appearance in the lifetime of semi-automatic pistols, made its design virtually the definition of how a pistol "should" look, especially in TV and movies. It was seen in early Dick Tracy comic strips (and the 1990 movie) and in the hands of Humphrey Bogart in "Casablanca."  It quickly turned into an "every pistol" and is a highly under-recognized accomplishment in the John Moses Browning design portfolio. They provide great alternative for someone who wants to concealed carry, but might not appreciate the aesthetics or lack of history of modern pistols.

Luckily, there is no shortage of either of these pistols in our upcoming 2015 December Premiere Firearms Auction. Likewise, there is also an excellent assortment not only of the 1903 and 1908, but also the 1908 Vest Pocket, and a splendid smattering of other early Colt semi-automatic pistols. Please click any of the links below to view the full selection.  You can place bids directly on our website or just peruse the various roles that these guns filled through their four working decades. Whether you choose buy an original Colt, a licensed reproduction, or just look, be sure to do it fast, because the popularity of these little guns seems to be catching on quickly.

Click here to view all Model 1903 & 1908 pistols in the 2015 December auction

Click here to view other early Colt semi-autos in the auction

Click here to view the Ralf Eyster Collection

-Written by Joel R. Kolander




SOURCES:

Ayoob, Massad F. Massad Ayoob's Greatest Handguns of the World. Vol. II. Iola, WI: Krause, 2012. Print.

http://www.alloutdoor.com/2015/01/23/colt-leaks-model-1903-general-officers-pistol-recreation-2015-shot-show/

http://www.usarmamentcorp.com/manufactured-products/colt-1903-pocket-pistol

...and a big thanks to Jake Nyman for taking time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions!

Dashing Derringers

See more derringers by clicking here!

Concealed carry is a big topic in the firearms community right now.  People discuss which calibers are best, which position is safest to carry, pros and cons of holsters, and any number of topics that, more often that not, end up involving a degree of subjectivity.  However, concealed firearms as a whole are nothing new. They go back to flintlock ammunition systems and there would probably be matchlock versions if people didn't have to worry about setting their clothes on fire when they carried.

Prior to calling them derringers, these pint-sized pistols were referred to as pocket pistols, muff pistols, palm pistols, and various other pseudonyms.  Only the advent and popularity of the Philadephia Deringer (note the spelling with a single 'r') developed by Henry Deringer, did the term become a generic, ubiquitous, term for any small, concealable handgun.  It also adopted a second letter "r" in the spelling, perhaps to differentiate it from the original Deringers.

While some of the earliest pocket pistols have have been flintlock, true Deringers were percussion style handguns produced from 1852 - 1868.  Around 15,000 of them were produced in that time in a variety of barrel lengths, and factory records imply that they were nearly all sold in matching pairs.  After all in the case of a missed shot or a misfire, one wouldn't reload a Deringer, but simply draw a "fresh" one.  The average price was around $15 - $20 for a pair, with embellished versions bringing higher prices.  Not only would they spawn dozens of imitators, but the gun's popularity would also inspire many gun makers to come up with derringers of their own design.  This article will look at pocket pistols of several makers, in an attempt to show the wide variety produced to satisfy a voracious demand by the public.

Lot 1144: Outstanding Presentation Cased Set of Philadelphia Deringer Percussion Pistols with Accessories

This set of Deringers was featured in last week's article regarding the Lincoln assassination, but it is also appropriate to include here.  The pistols seen above are the style Deringers are most known for: the bird's head stock, pineapple-style finial engraving on the trigger guards, and mounted with German silver.  Both are some of the smaller Deringer designs, but the one appearing upside-down in this photo is also known as the "Peanut" Deringer for its extremely small size and only 1 7/8 inch barrel.

Lot 1311: Attractive Engraved and Silver Plated Colt Third Model Derringer with Pearl Grips

This Colt Third Model derringer is silver plated, features mother of pearl grips, and is possibly New York engraved.  These tiny shooters were manufactured 1875 - 1912 and this particular model has a front sight for the optimistic user.  It remains in very fine condition and quite attractive.

Lot 1160: Extraordinary Factory Engraved Gold and Silver Plated Williamson Derringer with Maple Stock

Here the stylistic references to the Philadelphia Deringer are undeniable.  The checkering on the stock is nearly identical!  Less than 10,000 of these Williamson derringers were made and this is one of very few to survive at all, let alone in this excellent condition.  A fine maple stock holds a silver plated barrel and a gold plated, engraved trigger guard.  These were produced for Williamson by the Moore's Patent Firearms Co (which didn't last long after being sued by Rollin White for patent infringement) and National Firearms Co. in the late 1860s.

Lot 81: Remington Over/Under Derringer with Chicago Retailer Marked Case

It's difficult to determine which part of this case is the most beautiful, the outside or the inside.  The outside is a honey colored birdseye maple with a centered brass plaque, while the inside bears a velvet purple lining that must have been exceptionally vivid upon its creation.  Please click on the link to this gun to see an additional photo of the case's exterior.  The gun itself is worthy of such a case.  The Remington Type II (a.k.a. Model 3) derringer would have been made around 1888-1889 and still has its original nickel plating.  Adding to its high condition are sharp checkering on the grips and nitre blue parts.  Its low serial number of 413 adds to its collectablity.

Lot 90: Fine Nimschke Engraved W. W. Marston Superposed Three Barrel 32 Derringer

Collectors find Marston derringers desirable for any number of reasons: their size, the "barrel selector dial," the superposed triple barrels, and often some fine embellishments, as seen on the example shown above.  Made between 1864-1872, this little pistol has antique ivory grips, silver plating, and most notably, engraving by renowned Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke.

Lot 1298: Exceptional K.C. Hunt Signed Master Custom Engraved Colt Third Model Derringer

The second of the Colt Third Model derringers in this article is a masterfully done piece.  Its copious factory engraving was performed by Master Engraver K.C. Hunt, one of the finest Master Engravers of our time.  I strongly recommend visiting the item's listing to see even more angles of his incredible work.  The frame having been left bare after the engraving shows a handsome brass, but under the grips and barrel the original nickel plating may still be seen.  This is absolutely phenomenal work!  With all this rich engraving, one might wonder where the artist signed his work.  Wonder no more.

Lot 1159: Elaborate Exhibition Grade Gold Embellished and Relief Engraved Sharps Patent Style Pepperbox Pistol

Showing that not only Deringers were copied, this Spanish pistol attempts to replicate the Sharps Model 2A four shot pistol in rather spectacular form.  Gold inlays cover the barrel, floral engravings curls around the receiver, and it all ends in a sharp black hard rubber grip.

Exhibition Quality Factory Engraved Marlin Model 32 Standard 1875 Revolver with Desirable DeGress "Tiffany" Style Grips

The advent of cartridge handguns spelled doom for the percussion, single shot, breech-loaded Philadelphia derringer.  Multiple barrels came into play as did an endless number of designs, because while the Deringer did not live on, the popularity of small, concealable firearms certainly did.  This Marlin Model 32, borrowing heavily from the early Smith & Wesson revolvers, is one example of how cartridge ammunition put more firepower into the hands of derringer users.  Firing smaller, 32 long cartridges, gave users less "oomph" that the Deringer did, but it made up for it with the ability to take multiple shots at their target.  Very stylish, this Marlin has a gold plated cylinder, "New York" style engraving, nickel plating, and the DeGress "Tiffany" style grips.  Our describers say it best in this pistol's official description, "This is a beautiful gun and belongs in a serious Marlin collection. This combination of grips and master engraving is rarely available especially in this condition."

Honorable Mentions

Lot 1172: "The True Companion" Double Shot Percussion Knuckleduster Pistol

Lot 1162: Scarce Blue Chicago Fire Arms Co. Protector Palm Pistol with Scrimshaw Side Plates

Lot 112: Scarce Engraved Marston Three-Barrel Derringer with Desirable Sliding Spear Point Dagger

Lot 1313: Colt Third Model Derringer with Leather Case

As you can see, with the huge selection of rarity, beauty, and fascinating designs, this could have just as well turned into its very own book.  With any number of barrels, finishes, grips, sizes, calibers, embellishments to choose from, collecting derringers can be a highly personalized endeavor.  As I've heard jokingly mentioned at several gun shows, "The best part about collecting derringers, is that you can transport a whole collection in a shoe box."  This same sentiment is often echoed by collectors who display their much larger, heavier guns.  Looks like these pocket guns have put their diminutive size to yet another good use, even in the 21st century.

See more derringers by clicking here!

Fantastic Flops: The Walch Revolvers

Typically, we like to write about the guns that will be appearing in an upcoming auction.  Not only do we hope to make it interesting for anybody with an interest in firearms, but also to help generate some excitement about the sale.  That said, I'd like to take the time to write about an item that RIAC just sold in the September 2014 Premiere Firearms Auction.  To be completely honest, there were many guns in that auction that deserved a story, whether it was due to their design, rarity, or historical provenance.  This one happened to catch my eye the week of the auction, and it was just too late to give this fascinating little handgun the attention it deserved.  This firearm is none other than the Walch Ten-Shot pocket revolver.

This particular gun came about in the mid-19th century when new firearms designs seemed about as common as battles with Native Americans.  In 1835 Samuel Colt would patent his revolver (even though gunsmiths across the Atlantic figured it out first) and by 1856 Smith & Wesson was producing the first cartridge revolvers.  While these were the designs that history would eventually find the most successful, thousands of other designs were invented and have roots prior to 1870: cane guns, palm pistols, harmonica pistols, duckfoot pistols, trapdoors, dropping/falling block, Deringers, pinfire cartridges, the Gatling gun, the Henry rifle, interchangeable parts, the percussion cap, Lefaucheux mutli-round pistols, Sharps, LeMat, Spencer, and Volcanic ammunition.  This doesn't even mention some of the classics that came later in the 19th century like the early Winchesters, the early Colts, the first machine guns, the development of semi-automatics (rifles and pistols), bolt action rifles, and others that continue to dominate the landscape of firearms even to this day.  In other words, it was a booming time for firearms innovations.

One of those innovations was the Walch Revolver.  John Walch was a man trying to do what so many others were, invent a firearm that fired more quickly.  Colt's revolvers were selling like hot cakes by the mid 1800s and everybody wanted a piece of the pie, no matter how vigorously Colt defended his patents.  Walch decided to kill two birds with one stone.  He took the popular revolver design and reasoned that one could carry more firepower with superposed rounds in each chamber.

Now the idea of superposed or "stacked charge" firearms is nothing new.  In fact, the idea stretches all the way back to the 1500s and matchlock weapons.  Those early matchlocks and flintlocks often achieved this by having multiple ignition points down the same barrel (lots of flintlock hammers/frizzens) or a single sliding ignition source that could be positioned around various touch holes in succession.  Walch's idea was not so different; it involved multiple hammers, a little creativity, elongated chambers, a lot of confidence, and some help from well-known places.

Walch lived in New York and in 1859 patented his revolver with extended cylinders to accommodate two superimposed loads with two triggers and hammers, as well as two percussion nipples per chamber.  In this initial version, manufactured in .36 caliber, it would fire 12 rounds via single action in the following manner: load your cap and ball percussion revolver, place caps and prepare to fire.  First, cock the first hammer, which would rotate the cylinder and set the first trigger.  Pulling the first trigger would release the first hammer, which would strike the according percussion cap.  The spark from said cap would be directed via a drilled hole to powder on the forward-most charge and the round would fire.  Repeat again for the second hammer and trigger which, having no redirected spark, would function as a standard percussion revolver.

Inset from Walch's patent, showing the percussion nipples, indicated by the letter "V," and the bullets indicated by the letter "n."  Note now the uppermost nipple would send a spark via a "tube" to a resevoir of powder to ignite the first round.

He patented two designs in 1859 (pat. no. 22,905) and several different varieties would be produced that fired 10 shots, 12 shots, .36 and .31 caliber ball, one or two triggers, spur triggers, and various arrangements of the nipples.  The two Walch revolvers sold by RIAC in September 2014 were a configuration not listed on the initial patents.  As one can see from topmost picture, these versions involve spur triggers, 10 shots (2 per cylinder), ten nipples which run the circumference of the cylinder, and the left hammer is a standard hammer.  The hammer on the right, however, curves slightly to the right before curving back and again becoming parallel to the barrel, as shown in Walch's patent drawing at left.

To fire these revolvers, both hammers must be cocked at once (a task requiring two hands, even for a burly gent like myself).  Upon pulling the trigger the first time, the hammer on the right would fall to a nipple offset slightly to the right of the barrel.  Much as before that spark would be directed down a "tunnel" through the cylinder, meet with the powder of the forward-most shot and discharge the first round.  Pulling the trigger a second time, released the "left" hammer, which was actually centered behind the barrel much like a standard revolver, and fire the rearmost shot in a fashion identical to a standard percussion revolver.

Since the idea of superimposing two charges was not knew, neither were the dangers.  However, Walch proceeded with his design, and if the language of his patent is too be believed, he was confident that he had solved the problem.  It reads,

"By ramming the ball down, the recess of the ball will become compressed, and thereby the above-mentioned grease or composition will be forced out of the same, filling in every part between the ball and the barrel.  by this arrangement the chamber will be well greased and the barrel by each discharge will be thereby well cleaned.  by the forcible pressing out of the grease so as to fill every crevice between the ball and the changer every danger is likewise prevent by which the after-charge might be ignited when the forward charge is fired off, and as this forms a perfect air-tight packing for the ball the powder will have more force and be able to send the ball a greater distance... and that without materially increasing the size of the parts or adding to the complexity of the same, and my fire-arm is perfectly secure, and the forward charge is in all instances first exploded."

1896 does not refer to a year of manufacture. This revolver was formerly part of the famous U.S. Cartridge Company collection assembled during the late 19th Century by A. E. Brooks. The U.S. Cartridge Co. collection number "1896" is stamped on both grips below the grip screw.

In his patent letter, not only does Walsh make several exaggerated claims about his gun, but it also provides us with a handy outline of why this gun failed.

1.  The Quintessential Seal.  If loaded with great attention to detail, yes, there could be an airtight seal formed between chambers, allowing the revolver to fire as designed.  However, if that seal was not formed properly, by say Civil war soldiers firing and loading while locked in mortal combat, not only would the gun be less powerful, but it could potentially fire both shots at once.  This would, at best, waste a precious round and at worst, cause an explosive malfunction of the revolver, injuring or killing the shooter.  That seal could also be compromised by...

2.  Corrosion issues. Walch also speaks of the grease being discharged and leaving the barrel "well-cleaned."  For anyone that has shot or even read about black powder, you know this is a load of hooey.  Black powder is notoriously unclean and when left behind can cause rust and pitting, neither of which is conducive to the "airtight seal" required for this pistol to fire as intended.  The tiny channels inherent to its design, were difficult to clean resulting in rust and pitting and would have negatively affected the very thing the revolver was supposed to do.

3.  Complex Design.  The fowling that Walch claims would be cleaned away by the grease during firing, would also wreak havoc on the more complicated mechanism.  Documented time and time again in firearms design, more parts generally equals more things to go wrong.  Simple design is revered for a reason, and with black powder weapons it was a necessity.  More moving parts would foul much more quickly and seriously affecting reliability.  The revolver's complexity also subjected it to higher manufacturing costs.

4.  Low Power.  Walch talks about his airtight seal delivering a bullet with more force, but what he doesn't talk about is his chambers.  Yes, he mentions that the chambers are elongated, but loading two charges into one still requires a much smaller bullet as well as a smaller powder charge.  This results in smaller bullet, being fired at a lower velocity - not exactly desirable traits in a revolver hoping to win a military contract.

In fact, the power of the revolver was so low, that Jeff Kinard references the following Civil War story in his book, Weapons and Warfare: An Illustrated History of Their Impact,

"Elisha Stockwell, a Wisconsin private, recounted an incident in which he and a fellow soldier armed with a Walch attempted to supplement their rations in a farmer's pig sty:  "Reeder shot several times before he would give up.  That gun wouldn't kill a hog, and the pigs got so wild we couldn't get near them."

Despite its less than stellar performance, sales, and design (allegedly only 200 of the Walch 12-shot revolvers were ever produced), the gun is still sought by collectors for several reasons.  First of all, as perhaps you can guess from the production number just mentioned, is its rarity.  There are not a lot of surviving copies out there, about 3,200 of the primary two models, so any collector would be happy to obtain one at the right price.  Second, this was a pistol produced during the Civil War era and it is known that some Union soldiers privately purchased and carried them.  Third, the examples sold by Rock Island Auction Company in two separate lots, an iron and brass variation of which approximately 1,500 - 2,000 were made, were manufactured from 1860 - 1862 for John Walch and his partner J.P Lindsay (inventor of the Lindsay Two-Shot) by the New Haven Arms Company.  You read it right.  The same factory that was producing Henry rifles, was also making these scarce and  lesser-known revolvers.  Walch founded and owned the Walch Firearms Company, but had no manufacturing facilities.  Eventually, he would contract the Union Knife Company, located in Naugatuck, CT and the New Haven Arms Company to produce the .36 Navy Models and the .31 Pocket Models, respectively.  Add together the rarity, Civil War use, and the tie to Henry rifles, and you've got a trifecta that any collector would be hard pressed to refuse.


-written by Joel Kolander






Sources:

Weapons and Warfare: An Illustrated History of Their Impact  by Jeff Kinard
ISBN: 1-85109-470-9    or    1-85109-475-X

http://www.google.com/patents/US22905

http://www.rockislandauction.com/viewitem/aid/62/lid/1280

http://www.rockislandauction.com/viewitem/aid/62/lid/3113

Gustave Young: Iconic Engraver

While we were attending The Colorado Gun Collector's 48th Annual Gun Show in Denver this past May, we took in quite a few consignments.  One of the items was not a gun, but was such a direct link to history and collector firearms that it immediately stole our attention.  At first glance, it appeared to be little more than a humble book with a simple, engraved silver shield adorning its front cover.  The gilted text on the spine read "ALBUM" and we were intrigued.

Historic Leather Bound and Silver Furnished Photo Album from the Household of Historic Master Engraver Gustave Young, as Documented by Noted Arms Historian R.L. Wilson, From His Personal Collection

This album would turn out to be none other than a family photo album of legendary engraver Gustave Young, the German-born artisan whose signature crisp scrollwork and beautiful designs would set a high standard for all future gun engravers.  The "MY" engraved on the silver shield stands for Marie Young, his wife, and the "dot and line" border on the shield is in the style of the master himself.  Inside are 63 photos of men, women, children and included with the photo album is a letter from renowned author and historian R.L. Wilson, telling the story how he found this historic album and came to possess it.

Gustave Young can be seen as a young, bearded man in the lower right photo.

Young immigrated to the United States in 1846, and would engrave for Colt from 1852 into the mid 1860's, mentor the then-apprentice Conrad Ulrich, leave Colt, and return to run his own shop full-time.  He would be commissioned by Smith & Wesson in 1865 and officially enter their employ from 1869 into the 1890's.  His stature then was almost equal to what it has become today.  He was once known to have thrown D.B. Wesson out of this work area yelling, "Get out of my shop!  You talk so much I can't work!"  One characteristic of a Gustave Young piece that has changed over the years: the price.  He once wrote a letter to Wesson stating that his work would take 5-6 days to complete and that his charge would be $50.00.  His works now command hundreds of thousands of dollars or more!  Oddly, these masterpiece creations were the engravers secondary job while employed at their respective factories.  Their primary task was to create the dies required to produce firearms.  Firearms historian Roy Jinks says, "The engraver was busy cutting letter and number stamping dies, hammer and trigger checkering cutters, and wheels for rolling the company name on top of the barrel.  Engraving and gold inlaying were secondary assignments, designed to increase revenue and help reduce the overhead of this expensive service."  Gustave would pass away on January 3, 1895, but had had two sons, Oscar and Eugene, that would continue his engraving legacy at Smith & Wesson until 1913.

Examine the following items.  Most of them were engraved and/or inlaid by Gustave himself, two were likely created by an engraver in his shop, but all are exceptional examples of American firearms craftsmanship.

Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

One of two Colt 1851 Navy revolvers available in this auction, this is the earlier of the two having been manufactured in 1859.  This is a classic example of Gustave's style, showing off his European training in his trademark Germanic scrollwork on a punch-dot background.  He also included his signature Wolf's head design on the hammer as well as another animal head on the left side of the barrel lug - another well-known European design that has existed for centuries.  The contrast of the two toned metals is striking and the pistol finishes nicely with a handsome, one-piece, walnut grip.



Magnificent Sharps Panel Scene Gustave Young Engraved Model 1853 Percussion Sporting Rifle

This rifle was manufactured sometime between 1854 and 1856 and has the honor to be featured on page 103 of R.L. Wilson's book, "Steel Canvas."  He states in his book that the engraving, while performed in Young's shop, was probably executed by a worker other than Young himself.  It features engraving on the patchbox, hammer, breech end of the barrel, receiver, and the edge of the muzzle.  A trademark of Young's style, it also has nine dots stamped on it to indicate the level of embellishment.  Our consignor notes that only four model 1853 Model 1853 Sporting Rifles were made with "Extra Engraving."  Combine that with the fact that this gun is not a Colt nor Smith & Wesson and this gun becomes an especially rare example of an engraving connected to Young.  Also auctioned off with the rifle are the accessories and the original shipping box, still stamped on its lid with the owner's name and address!



Extraordinary Documented Gustave Young's 1893 Chicago World's Fair Exposition Engraved and Gold Inlaid Smith & Wesson 44 Double Action Frontier Model Revolver with Nevada Gold Mining Lawman History

Remember this Gustave Young engraved beauty?  We did a comprehensive write-up of its rich and amazing history earlier this month!  If you missed it the first time, consider this a great second chance to learn all about it.  You'll be glad you did.  Click here to open the article in a new window.


Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver

Here the dots which Gustave and his shop used to indicate varying levels of ornamentation
can be seen on the hammer.

This Colt Pocket Revolver is a smaller firearm than the other featured pieces seen here, but it also manages to be saturated with textbook Gustave Young style.  The scrollwork, the wolf's head hammer, and punch dots on the hammer are all in-line with his work.  This revolver, while maintaining those characteristics as well as the stately, polished walnut handle, also has some features that the other guns in this article would be proud to possess.  The scroll scene is the Stagecoach Holdup scene and all visible screws are engraved on their heads, a feature absent on even the previous gun that was featured in the Columbian Exposition.  This revolver's brass trigger guard and backstrap, in addition to being engraved, are also silver plated.  It's another classic example of Young's style that any collector would be privileged to have in their collection.




Fine Cased Gustave Young Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver with Factory Letter

The later of the two Colt 1851 Navy revolvers in our September 2013 Premiere Auction, this particular specimen still enjoys the comforts of its case and the company of its accessories.  A subtle difference between the two is the factory marking indicating that the firearm was to be engraved.  On the earlier model, a simple square shaped punch is placed in several locations, but on this model the punch has since been replaced by the letter "E" for "engraved" or other special finishes.  The amount of finish on the gun is impressive as are the touches of casehardening that grace the receiver, trigger, and screws.  The walnut grip shines with polish and its wood grains were well-chosen to finish out this becoming firearm.

One of the many animal heads that Young would incorporate in his scrollwork, a technique
European engravers have used for centuries.

Rare Early Production Colt Model 1 1855 Sidehammer Pocket Revolver with Hand Engraved Cylinder, Hammer and Barrel Address

This small looking Colt will bring a high level of rarity to the lucky collector who adds it to their collection.  For starters, it's a Model 1 Revolver.  Model 1s are one of the rarest Colt percussion revolvers, fewer produced than any Paterson, and their appearances at auction are far between.  This particular model is one of only 175 Model 1 Colt sidehammers made in 1855!  The address is also unique, being found only on early 1855 sidehammer revolvers with octagon barrels and of course, this gun wouldn't be featured in this article if it wasn't graced by the hand of Gustave Young.  The 5-shot  cylinder is wrapped with the hand engraved 'Cabin and Indian' scene, a depiction of a young homesteader man interrupted from chopping down a tree, stands firm to defend his cabin from Indians while his wife escapes with a swaddled child in her arms.  The remaining Indians, with three of their own dispatched and lying on the ground, seem to have lost their courage and are in various stages of surrender or retreat.

Young's telltale punch dots are present on the hammer below the spur and the revolver sports an attractive, polished, one piece rosewood grip.  It is a rare day indeed when a Model 1 comes up for auction, let alone one with the Colt commercial blue finish on the barrel and frame, the casehardened pieces (loading lever, cylinder pin, and hammer), the low serial number of 76, as well as being embellished by one of America's greatest firearms engravers.  All this for an estimated price that is a fraction of that of a Paterson?  Colt collectors should be lining up for this one!

This auction's representation of Gustave Young works is truly impressive.  What's more, there are firearms in this auction decorated by other master engravers in Young's beloved style.  Names such as Dennis Kies, Conrad Ulrich, and Andrew Bourbon have all engraved firearms in the Young style that appear in our September 2013 Premiere Auction.  This auction is truly a potent and diverse offering of some of the most significant and spectacular firearms.  Featuring the collections of noted collectors such as William H.D. Goddard, Mac McCroskie, Michael Ginn, C.D. Terry, Chuck & Sharron Lindley, Jerry Bowe, James Rankin, and John Olin, we are truly excited as our September auction date grows closer and closer.  We hope you are too.  Keep reading each week for more articles about the marvelous firearms here at Rock Island Auction Company!

A prime example of Young's signature "Wolf's Head."

-Written by Joel R. Kolander




SOURCES

Bleile, C. Roger. American Engravers. North Hollywood, CA: Beinfeld Pub., 1980. Print.

Jinks, Roy G., and Joseph Carvalho. Artistry in Arms: The Guns of Smith & Wesson. Springfield, MA: Smith & Wesson, 1992. Print.

Wilson, R. L. Colt: An American Legend (Sesquicentennial Edition). New York: Artabras, 1992. Print.