This is an Allen & Wheelock single shot .31 caliber percussion pistol. The Allen & Wheelock firm manufactured weapons out of Worcester, Massachusetts from 1856 through 1865. This particular pistol is very similar to Ethan Allen's first model "pocket pistol". These pistol's were generally .31 caliber and had rifled barrels with length's varying between 5 1/8" to 9". They were part octagon and part round and were made without ramrods. The saw type grips were made of either walnut and occasionally rosewood. batch numbers were found either on the bottom of the barrel or the top strap. Most of these early pistols, manufactured from the mid 1830's through 1842 were of the under hammer design. This weapon was produced between 1856 and 1865, but bears many of the similarities as the early Allen pocket rifles. The octagon to round barrel is a rifled .31 caliber and is equipped with both front and rear sights. The number 158 is stamped on the bottom of the barrel. The frame however, is not of the usual box frame design, but round. The metal has an even steel gray patina. The mechanics are a little weak, but the hammer locks in both half and full cock. The walnut grips fit the gun like a glove, obviously having been with the weapon since day one. The right grip has a small crack running from the bottom up to the retaining screw. While this was not considered a military weapon, there isn't much doubt some of these were carried by some southern farm boys as a secondary weapon during the Civil War. Here's a chance to own a rather usual, and rare firearm from the mid 1800's.

Item # AA1251

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