This is a .44 caliber double action revolver manufactured by the Starr Arms Company of New York City, New York. About 23,000 double action Starr revolvers were manufactured in the late 1850's and early 1860's. Most of these were purchased by the U.S. Army. Starr revolvers represented about 12% of the sidearms issued to the Union cavalry, surpassed only by Colt and Remington. Starr made one of the earliest double action revolvers. They are six shot cap and ball revolvers with a six inch round barrel with six grooves. The overall length is 11 5/8" and it weighs 2 pounds 12 ounces. It has a steel blade front sight dovetailed into the barrel. A V notch cut into the hammer serves as a rear sight. There is a knurled screw on the right side of the frame, that when removed, allows the barrel to tip downwards on its hinge so the cylinder can be removed. The Starr revolver was invented by Eben Starr of New York City, grandson of Nathan Starr. The firearms were made at Yonkers, Binghamton and Morrisania, New York. The New York City address referred to the company's store location. This double action Starr Model 1858 revolver has been converted to use cartridges. It is slightly larger than .45 caliber, both at the cylinder and the barrel. It is in fair condition, showing considerable use but not abused. The exterior of the gun has light pitting scattered about. The barrel, frame and loading lever retain traces of the bluing, with the remainder of the metal having a mottled steel gray and plum patina. The serial number of 12468 is stamped inside of the hammer, bridge and left frame. The cylinder is stamped 10266. The bore is in fair condition, free of pitting and rust, but shows worn rifling. The mechanics of the Starr are not always functional. This one is an exception, working just like ol' Eben designed it to do. The one piece wood grip shows honest wear, and have their share of dings and mars. There are no visible cartouches on the grips. There are sub inspector markings all over this one. The barrel has an C on the left side and a B on the right side. The left side of the frame has the letter B in two places, behind the cylinder on the frame and just above that on the hinged portion of the barrel. The frame is stamped below the cylinder STARR ARMS Co. NEW YORK on the left side. The trigger guard is stamped L just forward of the bow. The right side of the frame is stamped STARR'S PATENT JAN. 15, 1856. This piece shows it's fair share of use, but no sign of a foreign made conversion. I have seen several of these with Belgian of German proof marks, but none are found on this one. It is an interesting conversion that I believe was performed here in the US, and will add some spice to your cartridge conversion gun collection.

Item # AA3435

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