Shattuck Patent Swing Cylinder Revolver, .32 RF Caliber

Manufactured circa 1879 and later - .32 Rimfire (RF) Caliber - Limited Production

Following the success of the pocket revolvers popularized by Smith & Wesson during the late 19th century, the American C.S. Shattuck Arms Company developed several compact revolvers intended for the civilian self-defense market. Among them was this distinctive Swing Cylinder model, featuring a side-swinging cylinder, an advanced design for its era.

Produced in relatively limited numbers between the 1870s and the early 20th century, Shattuck firearms are now sought after by collectors of antique American arms due to their rarity and unique mechanical features. The company notably employed Oscar Frederick Mossberg, who would later become the founder of the renowned firearms manufacturer O.F. Mossberg & Sons.

Our Example

This C.S. Shattuck .32 Rimfire revolver is an uncommon model believed to have been manufactured in only a few hundred examples. It features an ingenious side-swinging cylinder system, allowing quick access to the chambers without the use of tools, a remarkably innovative feature for the period.

The revolver retains much of its original nickel finish and remains in very good overall condition. The manufacturer's markings and patent information are still clearly visible and easily legible.

The grips are among the most attractive features of this example. They display a rare design, with the right grip panel featuring a medallion bearing the likeness of Abraham Lincoln. These original grips are particularly well preserved and show only light wear consistent with the revolver's age.

Mechanically, the revolver remains functional. Its push-button release system still allows the cylinder to swing open to the right side of the frame. Cocking and firing mechanisms operate smoothly. Timing remains good, with only slight cylinder play and a minimal barrel-to-cylinder gap when fully cocked.

The 2¾-inch barrel has a gray, age-related bore with no significant pitting. The rifling remains visible and well defined.

Rarely encountered on today's collectors' market, this black powder cartridge revolver is a fascinating example of the ingenuity of late 19th-century American gunsmiths and perfectly illustrates the diversity of metallic cartridge firearms produced during this period.