Marked "ADDRESS / P.W. PORTER / NEW-YORK" and "P.W. PORTER'S / PATENT. / 1851." in two three line blocks on the upper right flat of the barrel in front of the receiver. These were made for Porter by G.P. Foster, at that time in Taunton, Mass. The serial number on the cylinder, frame (two places), bottom of the barrel and latch all match. This is actually a transition model. It has the pivoting primer cover of the First Model but the round shape of the Second Model. The cylinder top cover and the rear sight are missing. The front sight is offset to the left to allow for the turret being in the normal line of sight. The old story about Porter being killed while showing his invention to Samuel Colt has proven to be just that, a story. While the rifle, like almost any multiple shot percussion gun, was subject to multiple charges going off at the same time, the angle is such that the person firing the gun should get no worse than powder burns.

Very good. Smooth light brown patina overall with some light pitting around the breech. The stock is very good retaining much of its original varnish and showing numerous minor nicks, scratches and dents. There is a large dark area on the right side, possibly a flaw in the wood itself. Mechanically needs work, the hammer will not cock when the side plate is closed, otherwise the mechanics function fine.