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A fine special order engraved 'BULLDOG' pattern revolver of the 1875 period in excellent original condition with several rare features.
This revolver has a 3 1/2" barrel rather than the usual 2 1/2". This revolver is five shot, chambered for the .450 Adams cartridge as used in British military revolvers of the period, a very potent load for a revolver like this! This Bulldog has a gold bird inlaid on the frame top strap. This revolver is serial number '1' on all majuor parts.
In recent years research has shown that 'BULLDOG' revolvers were very popular weapons of both defence and offence on the Western Frontier. They were easy to conceal and easy to draw from one's pocket when things got desperate across a card table in a saloon, or anywhere else.
The majority of 'Bulldogs' were produced in .32 and .38 caliber. Few were built in .450 due to their blast and recoil in firing. But for those anticipating very dangerous situations the .450 was good insurance.This one was made in Liege Belgium, for export, in the largest possible caliber for its frame size. Bulldog revolvers were also produced in England and the United States. This .450 was a special order revolver with one inch longer barrel than standard, deluxe engraving, and bas relief deluxe gutta percha grips.
The presence of a gold bird on a blue/black background inlaid on the top strap of the frame is quite rare. It may possibly relate to a family crest. This revolver is serial number '1' on its major parts, which given all its special features is logical.
This rare 'BULLDOG' is in excellent original condition retaining 97% original nickel finish. The mechanics are excellent as are the grips. The revolver comes with its original 'pocket holster' of a type patented in Chicago in 1878.
A handsome and quite impressive deluxe antique revolver for the collector.
Dimensions: barrel length 3 1/2", overall 7 1/2", cal.450
Price: 1485.00
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