The Volcanic Repeating Arms Company manufactured an estimated 1,500 Navy style pistols with 8 inch barrels between July 1855 and April 1857 when Oliver Winchester took control of the company and re-organized it as the New Haven Arms Company. Volcanic pistols and carbines are revolutionary and historically significant firearms. The top barrel flat is stamped "THE VOLCANIC/REPEATING ARMS CO./PATENT NEWHAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854." These markings indicate the pistol was manufactured before Oliver Winchester reorganized the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. as the New Haven Arms Co. in 1857. Matching serial number appear on the left side of the grip frame, both grip panels, and lever. Includes as "EL GALLATIN & CO./MAKERS" marked California pattern floral tooled leather holster, circa 1860s when the company was in Denver, Colorado. Volcanic arms have a significant place in the development of American firearms. The combination of a self-contained cartridge, integral, multi-shot magazine and self-cocking lever action made Volcanic pistols and carbines the most advanced firearms of their day. The key features of the Volcanic pistols and carbines were refined and incorporated in the Henry rifle and Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles and carbines. Finally, shirt maker Oliver Winchester's investment in Volcanic Repeating Arms introduced him to the firearms business.

Good. The barrel and magazine tube have a mottled gray patina with slight traces of original blue finish towards the muzzle. The frame has a dark mellow appearance. The grips are also good with cracks on both panels at the grip frame pin, small chip at the top (left panel), minor dings and scratches and high edge wear and high edge wear. The magazine spring is absent. Mechanically functions fine. The holster is very good with slight loose toe plug.