Lot 6: New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic Lever Action No. 1 Pocket Pistol

This is one of an estimated 850 No. 1 pocket pistols with a 3 1/2 inch barrel manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co., New Haven, Connecticut, in 1857/58. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, round finger hole in the lever and flat bottom grips. The pistol is fitted with a pinched blade front sight on the barrel and a notch rear sight at the rear of the frame. The top barrel flat is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854." The deletion of "VOLCANIC REPEATING ARMS CO." from the barrel legend occurred after Oliver Winchester assumed control of the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. and re-organized it as the New Haven Arms Company on May 1, 1857. Both grip panels are numbered to the gun. Includes a modern French cut wooden display case. Volcanic firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine introduced with Volcanic pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle and the Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles. Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. Included with lot is a modern made custom wood presentation style case.

Fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 50% original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The brass frame has a highly attractive mellow aged appearance and has tight fitting side plates. The grips are fine with high edge wear on both lower panels and some minor dings and scratches. The magazine spring is absent. Mechanically functions fine. A solid representative example of a Volcanic pistol for your Winchester or American antique firearms collection.