Manufactured in the 1850s, this is an example of a First Model. Approximately 300 First Model rifles were produced and serial numbered 1 through approximately 300 with this example numbered 25. Marked "ADDRESS P.W. PORTER/NEW-YORK" and "P.W. PORTER'S/PATENT 1851" in two-line/two-blocks on the upper left barrel flat. The rifle has offset front and rear sights to allow for the turret which is in the normal line of sight and a rounded shaped primer cover that swivels downward for loading (note that First Models typically had square shaped primer covers with a rounded front edge, according to Flayderman's Guide). The included "U" shaped iron turret cover is rarely found with the gun. The serpentine shaped loading lever, which is a feature of the first models, included with this example. This example shows no provisions for the loading lever that was mounted on top of the barrel at the breech. Matching serial number on the inside of the frame, lever, turret iron cover, nine shot cylinder, barrel. Smooth straight grip stock with a crescent iron buttplate. The name "W.P. Morton" (who remains unidentified at the time of this writing) is nicely carved on the left side of the buttstock. 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. The barrel has a smooth dark patina. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth gray patina. There is some minor pitting. The stock is fine with a number of pressure dents and scratches. Mechanically needs work as the cylinder does not rotate with cocked.