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Rare James Reid's "My Friend" New Model 32 Knuckleduster Revolver, as Seen in Arms Gazette Magazine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,500.00 USD Estimated At:7,000.00 - 9,000.00 USD
Rare James Reid's  My Friend  New Model 32 Knuckleduster Revolver, as Seen in Arms Gazette Magazine
The final iteration of the Knuckleduster, introduced before Reid left the trade in 1884, less than 100 were believed to have been made, with only 18 confirmed today, this one carrying the lowest known serial number. Sharing traits with both the Knuckleduster and Reid's other revolver designs, the arm is fitted with a nickel finished blade front sight on the barrel, which is marked "REID'S NEW MODEL .32./ MY FRIEND" on the left side. Five round cylinder with a recessed rear face, with matching partial serial number and a knurled ribbed cylinder pin. Checkered spur hammer, with a smooth spur trigger, engraved grip section with checkering on the back, punch-dot backed scrollwork on the sides and a finger ring connecting the spur to the bird's head butt. An article, titled "My Friend James Reid" by Charles Grimes, was published in the March 1976 edition of Arms Gazette magazine, which pictures this revolver and identifies it by serial number. A photocopy is included.
BBL: 2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 32 RF
Finish: nickel
Grips: metal
Serial Number: 18280


Very fine, with 75% of the original nickel finish, showing areas of brown patina on the surface, with small areas of pitting beginning to form. A few scratches are visible on the left side of the frame, with scattered dings. Solid traces of niter blue are visible on the cylinder pin catch, with a brown patina on the cylinder pin. Markings are sharp and the engraving is well executed. Mechanically fine.