Around 1,000 of these revolvers were manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Company in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts, in 1850-51 before production was halted due to a patent infringement suit won by Colt. This example has a mid-length barrel, small blade and notch sights, "MASS. ARMS. CO./CHICOPEE FALLS" on the top strap, "WESSON'S&LEAVITT'S PATENT" on the right side of the action, "PATENT NOV.26.1850" on the barrel catch, "LEAVITTS' PATENT APRIL 29.1837" on the rear face of the cylinder, "WESSONS' PATENT AUG. 28. 1849" on the bevel gear, "371" on the barrel barb and face of the cylinder pin, "456" on the recoil shield and back strap, factory scroll engraving on the hammer and action, and martial and scroll etching on the cylinder. The case is fitted to the gun and contains a small powder flask with a Wesson & Leavitt revolver on it, loading rod, Mass. Arms. Co. bullet mold, L-shaped combination tool with screwdriver and nipple wrench, Eley cap tin, package of "6 Combustible Envelope Cartridges," several small lead balls, a key, and original Massachusetts Arms Company directions.

Fine. There is strong original niter blue finish on the barrel catch and sides of the trigger, patches of original blue finish on the top of the barrel, traces of blue on the cylinder, 70% original muted case colors remaining on the frame, and over 75% of the original, flaking silver plating remaining on the grip straps. The balance has mostly a brownish gray patina and there are some spots of minor pitting and oxidation, most notably near the muzzle. The grip is also fine and has only some minor marks. The action functions fine and the markings, etching, and engraving patterns are clear throughout. The case is fine with mild exterior storage wear and fading, stains, and some slight tears on the original faded interior.