Manufactured circa 1851 to 1860, this example is the earliest type with the manually revolved six-shot cylinder. Total production on this type was about 900. A Colt lawsuit forced Massachusetts Arms Co. to switch to manually rotated cylinders, and led to the adoption of the Maynard priming system in an attempt to win over potential customers. On this early example, the cylinder is released via a small button ahead of the trigger, and then cocking the hammer activates the primer and readies the revolver to fire without further advancing the cylinder. It has a brass blade front sight, "MASS. ARMS CO/CHICOPEE FALLS" and a notch rear sight on the top strap, etched floral designs on the cylinder, scroll engraving on the frame and primer door, "MAYNARD'S PATENT/SEP. 22. 1845" on the primer door, and a flourish of floral engraving on the back strap. "773" marked on the frame inside the primer area, underside of the primer door and right of the grip frame. "512" marked on the underside of the top strap. Includes a hardwood case fitted to the revolver with an extra floral etched pattern cylinder, Massachusetts Arms Co. marked powder flask, Massachusetts Arms Co. container for primer tape, brass ramrod, key, lead balls and a brass dual cavity bullet mold.

Very good, exhibits smooth gray patina with traces of original blue finish on the barrel and strongest on barrel retainer, with distinct etching and engraving. The grips are very fine with a few light handling marks. Mechanically fine. Included case is fine. The accessories are all very fine.