peashooter85:An unidentified pinfire zigzag revolver, maker unknown, 19th century,from Rock Island A
peashooter85:An unidentified pinfire zigzag revolver, maker unknown, 19th century,from Rock Island AuctionsExcept for the action, the revolver’s design is indicative of 19th century European influence: part octagon barrel, fixed sights (dovetailed pinched front sight with bead and notched rear sight on the recoil shield), open top frame, contoured barrel lug and humpback back strap and grips. The design recalls the revolvers by Raphael and Perrin. The action is another matter and is unusual to say the least, but displays the craftsmanship of a master gunsmith and suggests that it is an experimental revolver. Cocking the firearm requires the operator to pull back on a knob located ahead of the trigger. Pulling back on the knob rotates the cylinder and cocks the hammer. The rebated cylinder rotates via a zig zag type mechanical motion, and the hammer slides back. Once cocked, the operator pulls back on the trigger to release the hammer. The grip frame and trigger guard are contoured for the operator to be able to use one hand when pulling back on the cocking knob with his pointer finger and then pulling the trigger. The centerfire firing pin is adjustable with the rear section threaded. The revolver appears to have been left in the white and is without maker markings and proofmarks. It is fitted with smooth walnut grip panels, which are attached to the frame by three screws (two near the top, one near the bottom). -- source link