This is one of only an estimated 850 Volcanic No. 1 lever action pocket pistols manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company in New Haven, Connecticut c. 1857-1862 per "Volcanic Firearms" by Lewis and Rutter, page 73. The top and sides of the frame and back strap are decorated with well executed open scroll factory engraving. The barrel is fitted with a pinched blade font sight and a simple notched rear sight is mounted in a dovetail on the frame. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854." The deletion of "VOLCANIC" from the barrel legend occurred after Oliver Winchester formed the New Haven Arms Company on May 1, 1857. The serial number "1158" appears on the left side of the grip frame and on the back of each grip panel. Volcanic firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine introduced with Volcanic pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle and the Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles. Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company.

Very good. The barrel and magazine have a dark gray patina of a well traveled sidearm with slight traces of original blue finish in the protected areas. The frame is fine and has a very attractive appearance and crisp factory engraving. The sanded and refinished undersize grips are good with a repaired right panel and a couple splice repairs on the bottom. Mechanically fine.