Very early production Merwin Hulbert & Co., First Model, First Type, large frame, open top .44 caliber single action revolver manufactured circa 1877. This revolver has the early scooped cylinder and flat butt with lanyard ring hole. The hammer has the early, turned down, spur. The barrel, cylinder and frame are nickel plated, and the hammer and trigger are casehardened. The revolver is fitted with the very desirable, multi-colored, checkered hard rubber grips. The left side of the barrel is roll-stamped "THE HOPKINS & ALLEN Manufacturing Co. Norwich. Conn. U.S.A." in one-line. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped "MERWIN HULBERT & Co. NEW YORK. U.S.A." followed by extended patent dates. The serial number "158" is stamped on the butt behind the lanyard ring hole. The assembly number "165" is stamped on the face of the barrel lug and rear face of the cylinder. There are no caliber markings on the revolver.