Only a very limited number of these powerful .577 revolvers were manufactured around the late 1870s and the 1880s. Some estimate fewer than 100. They were designed to fill the same role as the powerful howdah pistols and stopping rifles: stopping dangerous game before it could kill you. They were among the most powerful handguns ever manufactured. Their impressive power is also why they are so rare. There was naturally a limited number of individuals looking for a handgun this powerful to take out into the field compared to the more common revolvers used primarily for defense against human threats. This gargantuan revolver has an octagonal barrel with raised narrow sighting rib bearing a crescent blade front sight and signed “A. HENRY. 12. SOUTH ST. ANDREW ST. EDINBURGH.” The rib extends to form the top strap which incorporates a grooved rear sight1. The blued fluted cylinder is marked "577" and "38" on the rear. The frame has twin release levers and is struck “PATENT 6082” on the right side in a diamond. The checkered figured walnut grip has a casehardened cap with a large lanyard ring. The barrel has small London black powder proof marks on the lower left and "3138" on the bottom. The cylinder has "577" and "38" on the back.

Overall in very fine condition. The barrel, cylinder and frame retain 95% original blued finish and have two patches of surface corrosion, one on the sighting rib and one on the right flank of the frame. The trigger guard retains 50% original blued finish and is rubbed and worn on the bow. There is minor age related scattered storage and handling blemishes throughout. The signature is crisp. The grip has minor age related storage and handling blemishes and retains well-defined checkering. Mechanically excellent. This is an incredibly scarce and impressive English double action revolver. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.