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Rare James Reid New Model Knuckle Duster Single Action Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:2,000.00 USD Estimated At:4,000.00 - 6,000.00 USD
Rare James Reid New Model Knuckle Duster Single Action Revolver
Produced in 1883 and also known as the "Protector", only about 360 were made, falling in the serial number range of about 18240 to 18600. A revision of the Knuckle-Duster design, larger in the front to accommodate the barrel and showing an enlarged finger hole. Marked "REIDS NEW MODEL .32 / MY FRIEND" on the left side of the barrel, with the serial number on the bottom of the frame and matching "84" on the rear cylinder face, cylinder pin and underside of the barrel. Five round fluted cylinder, spur type hammer, grooved cylinder pin and loading groove on the right side of the frame (not encountered on all New Models). Scroll and punch dot engraving is present on the sides of the frame, with a decorative border around the checkered backstrap. In the catalogs of the time, this "New 5 Shot Protector" was advertised as the "Handsomest Revolver In the Market", "Elegantly hand engraved", and "In mechanism and finish equal to any Colt or Smith & Wesson".
BBL: 2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 32 RF
Finish: nickel
Grips: metal
Serial Number: 18384


Good as cleaned, with a bright metal appearance overall and some scattered very minor pitting on the frame, cylinder and hammer. The barrel marking is readable and the engraving remains crisp. Mechanically needs work as the cylinder will not rotate when cocked. A rare James Reid New Model Knuckle Duster.