3193

Unique Engraved Prototype Bowles Patent Over and Under Rimfire Derringer with Ivory Grips

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 13,000.00 USD
Unique Engraved Prototype Bowles Patent Over and Under Rimfire Derringer with Ivory Grips
Similar in design to the Remington Over and Under Derringer, though with a different breechblock arrangement and an automatic extractor system under patent #213616 which was granted March 25, 1878. Fixed sights, with wedges of scroll engraving on the sides of the barrel, around the hinge, and some interwoven lines on the rib. Similar patterns are visible on the frame, which has a serrated hammer, checkered trigger and bird's head butt. Fitted with a pair of smooth ivory grips. Serial number 1 stamped under barrel, obviously for the designation of this being prototype #1. Writer has never seen another example of this unique prototype derringer which was reportedly made as a pattern for demonstration of John Bowles improved extractor mechanism of the spent cartridge by a rather simple extension mounted on the right hinge screw which acts in the stationary position to give upward lift to a more substantial extractor apparatus mounted in unison between the two barrels through the center rib. This kicks just like automatic ejectors do on a high grade double barrel shotgun!
BBL: 3 inch solid rib
Stock:
Gauge: 32
Finish: nickel
Grips: ivory
Serial Number: 1/ 3739
Condition: Very good, with a mixed gray patina overall, a small amount of pitting, and scattered spotting and handling marks. Grips are fine, with a mended chip on the left panel, mild age cracking, and attractive color and grain. Case has a loose hinge. Mechanically good.