Lot 87: William B. McCarty Revolving Pistol

This unusual handgun is based on a design by William B. McCarty of Cale, Indiana, for which he filed a patent on Feb. 21, 1908, and was granted a patent on March 2, 1909. A copy of the patent documents is included. It does not appear this design was ever put into production, and this is the only example we know of. The body of the gun has an 18-round rotating magazine somewhat akin to the Protector palm pistols but the cartridges fit at an angle. This design was featured on the cover of one of the editions of "Firearms Curiosa" by Lewis Winant and is pictured on page 203 and discussed on 202-204 of the Bonanza Books edition. There are no markings visible. It does not have the loading and ejection port shown in the patent drawings. The odd rib serves only as a structure for raising the front sight blade in line with the notch rear sight. The strap at the back has broad checkering. The overall design is rather unique.

Fine with a mix of nickel plating and gray patina, some mild pitting, and general marks and scratches. Mechanically condition unknown. This is a really unusual and interesting firearm and certainly well-deserving of the title of curiosity.