Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers, and this is a rare Navy Issued example. The M1879 Reichsrevolver, or Reichs-Commissions-Revolver Modell 1879, was a service revolver used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when it was superseded by the Luger. The Model of 1879 was issued with a 7" 10.6mm x 25R mm Barrel, which sported a rather fancy ring to the muzzle. In 1883 they introduced a shorter barrel version that had only a 5" barrel, the M1883. Although the design was dated, the weapon was extremely robust, and they were still used through World War I. The M1879 is referred to as the "cavalry model" and the M1883 as the "officer's model," by collectors, which were not official designations.
These revolvers were single action only and were fitted with a robust safety lever on the left hand side of the frame, which functions differently depending on hammer position. If the hammer is in the fire position, the safety locks the hammer completely. If in the half-cock position, it locks the hammer there, facilitating reloading of the revolver or removal of the cylinder. They also have a very robust ring on the bottom of the grip, for securing the revolver to the uniform.
There were made by various different makers, and this example is marked S & S. V.C.S. C.G.H over SUHL. This is the marking of the Suhl consortium of arms makers consisting of Spangenberg & Sauer, V.C Schilling & Cie and C.G. Haenel & Cie, who supplied Prussia, Bavaria and Saxony. The side of the barrel trunion is worn, and we cannot make out a date anywhere on this example.
Our Revolver bears serial number 750 on all major parts of the revolver, with shortened number 50 on the smaller parts. Even the inside of both grip scales is marked with the full serial number! This is a very rare ALL MATCHING example, which did not have any parts swapped out during service.
There are various proof marks on most parts, was was standard for German issued weapons. It is also marked on the butt plate with the regimental designation H. R. A. 1. 30, which has the stylized "R" indicating a reserve unit. We unfortunately have not been able to identify this unit, which could be either a Hussars light cavalry, or possibly an artillery unit.
The grips are in very good condition, and the metalwork has a lovely faded patina, showing some light denting and wear on the exterior. The bore however looks unissued, bright with crisp lands and grooves, and little sign it was ever fired. The loading gate is intact and fully functional. The revolver cycles, however it is finicky, and sometimes requires several attempts to cock the hammer due to some internal wear.
Very substantial and a great example of a solid German design. Ready to display!
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: circa 1882
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 7 inches
Overall Length: 14 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver
NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.
