This one of a kind prototype M1889 Reiger pistol functions using one of the most mechanically advanced manual repeating systems known in early pistol design. Predating semi-automatic pistol designs, this repeater functions through the use of a ring lever that is manually pulled backwards to move the bolt forward, indexing the internal six round rotary magazine one position and chambering a round. At the rearward most point of travel, the stand alone trigger is bumped, releasing a striker operated center fire firing pin contained inside the bolt. After firing, the ring lever is then manually pushed forward to move the bolt backwards and eject a spent case. This pistol functions similar to a Schulhof pistol from the same time period. Adjustable front and ramped sliding rear sight. Completely unmarked. The right side of the frame has a sliding door that reveals a removable sheet metal constructed skeleton frame six round rotary magazine with cylinder indexing grooves on its rear. Rear mounted sliding safety below the bolt, operated by pushing it to the left in order to block the rear end of the bolt, which locks the bolt in the closed position. If already cocked, the safety will also enter a catch under the rear of the protruding firing pin. Moving the safety to the right allows for full operation. This pistol can be found in the Austrian book, "Vom Ursprung der Selbstladepistole" (From the Origin of the Self-Loading Pistol) by Mötz & Shuy pages 102 and 103. Provenance: The Clive Cussler Collection

Fine as a tool room prototype, with a nice even patina on the brass frame and the in the white iron parts with some light scattered pitting. Grips are very good with some light handling marks, a chip on the high left grip, a crudely cut slot on the high right side grip, a chip out of the lower right grip, and some light wear. Mechanically excellent. A brilliant early manual repeating pistol.