According to the included factory letter, this revolver was shipped to B. Kittridge & Company of Cincinnati on 26 July 1877. The letter confirms the caliber as ".44 Rim Fire", a chambering which was already falling out of use in favor of more potent centerfire cartridges such as the 44 American/Russian and 45 Colt. As a result, most were dumped in Central and South America, with survivors being scarce in any condition. Fixed sights, with the one line Hartford address on top of the barrel, 3-line address on the black powder frame, and "44 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard. Matching numbers on the frame and grip straps, with "18" on the side of the cylinder and "188" on the loading gate. Smooth one-piece grips.

Good, with 40% of the period retailer applied nickel finish, strongest on the frame, with a mixed brown patina overall, scattered pitting and dents. The barrel is a replacement with military inspection, most likely from an Ainsworth inspected Cavalry. Grips are good, with chipping, dings and white residue. Mechanically very good.