Iconic Merwin Hulbert .44-40 Caliber “Pocket Army” 3rd Model with Holster

Merwin Hulbert Revolver – "Pocket Army" DA 3rd Model

Manufacture: 1883–87 – Caliber: .44-40 – Features: Excellent condition, period holster.

History

Between 1874 and 1891, Merwin & Hulbert revolvers competed with major American manufacturers such as Colt and Smith & Wesson. Produced in numerous variants, these high-end revolvers were distinguished by their fine finish—often nickel-plated—and a price point higher than that of their competitors. They featured innovative engineering, notably the ability to quickly disassemble the gun into three components (frame, cylinder, and barrel) without tools, as well as the famous "twist-open" system—branded "Automatic" by Merwin & Hulbert—which allowed for the simultaneous ejection of spent casings. Historical documentation on the brand remains limited, relying primarily on Art Phelps's reference work, *The Story of Merwin, Hulbert and Co. Firearms*; this scarcity contributes to the unique allure these weapons hold for collectors.

Among the iconic models is the "Pocket Army" revolver, recognizable by its "birds-head" grip—a design that is both elegant and distinctive, offering a unique feel in the hand. Although produced in smaller quantities than their competitors' models, Merwin & Hulbert revolvers remain significant and highly sought-after pieces in the realm of antique American firearms.

Our Model

Note: This revolver comes with its period shoulder holster, signed by A. L. Furstnow. A. L. Furstnow’s Saddlery opened its doors in 1894 in Miles City, Montana, and quickly became one of the Frontier’s most renowned saddlers, supplying gear to cowboys, ranchers, and lawmen.

Handling this Merwin & Hulbert revolver immediately clarifies why it was marketed as an "Automatic System Revolver" at the time. Preserved in remarkable condition, its "twist-open" mechanism still operates with impressive firmness and vigor, a testament to the quality of its original craftsmanship.

The metal components feature a nickel finish, characteristic of most Merwin & Hulbert revolvers. The nickel retains a beautiful luster despite minor signs of use consistent with the weapon's age. The markings—notably fine on this brand—are perfectly legible and confirm that the firearm has never undergone restoration. The serial number (6XXX) stamped on the frame does not allow for precise dating but places manufacture within the 1883–1887 range. The original gutta-percha grips are in excellent, undamaged condition, displaying a light patina that complements the overall piece.

Mechanically, this double-action Merwin & Hulbert "Pocket Army" is in excellent working order, showing only very slight play and a standard cylinder gap. Indexing is precise, the action is smooth, and the trigger break is crisp. The 3½-inch barrel—the shortest length offered for this model—is chambered in .44-40 (.44 WCF) and features a light-gray bore with deep, well-defined rifling. The famous "twist-open" system allows for instant opening and disassembly, paired with the brand's signature "suction" extraction mechanism, which facilitates the ejection of spent casings. The "birds-head" grip, with its instantly recognizable design, plays a key role in the revolver's aesthetics and identity.

The Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Pocket Army thus remains a legendary firearm of the American West—as innovative as it is attractive—prized for both its mechanical design and its elegance.

The holster is in excellent condition, featuring a beautiful patina and uniform leather color. The woven strap that secures the leather is present and complete, though it requires some reinforcing stitching.