Identified - Allen & Thurber, 1845, Patented, Bar Hammer, Percussion Boot Pistol

A percussion cap firearm represents a significant advancement in firearm technology, following the flintlock.
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adavis
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Identified - Allen & Thurber, 1845, Patented, Bar Hammer, Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

Just picked up a new project to join the club. :D

I know nothing about this one except it looks like tough project to bring back to a functional state (best kind). Any help to identify is appreciated.
Thanks
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Last edited by adavis on Sun Sep 15, 2024 2:30 pm, edited 3 times in total.
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adavis
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

This pistol has a 4 inch barrel that measures closer to 34 caliber however it has a "33" mark on the bottom side of the frame. The chassis measure approximately 7-3/8" in length. Based on Internet searches this appears to possibly be made by either Bacon or Manhattan Firearms.
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adavis
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

Maybe a 1856 to 1859 Manhattan Firearms Bar Hammer Percussion Single shot Pistol (.34)?
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smithy
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by smithy »

NICE! I bet you are correct, and this is a Manhattan firearm frame. I'm going to check the attic because I think I have an old book all-things Manhattan Firearms that I can send over to ya. I bet we're going to have to make some parts. :) Chat soon.
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adavis
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

I finally had a few minutes free and began the recondition project with the top layer cleaning step. This is a non-abrasive process to clean down to the metal and rust. I took some pictures and put the frame to sleep in a mild rust bath for the night.

I'm really starting to realize this one is going to need a lot of love and creativity to return to a functional state.
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adavis
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

The initial cleaning made it easier to read the markings. I believe these to include:
- 1845
- Patented
- Cast Steel

With this new info I think we're much close to identification. This appears to be an Ethan Allen Patent single-shot percussion pistol.
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adavis
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Re: Open - 0003 - Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

This is what it is supposed to look like! :)
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Re: Identified - Allen & Thurber, 1845, Patented, Bar Hammer, Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

The barrel has an interesting and distinct hexagon pattern.
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smithy
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Re: Identified - Allen & Thurber, 1845, Patented, Bar Hammer, Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by smithy »

Polygonal rifling? That looks similar to a few older enfields that I saw back in the day (possibly).
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adavis
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Re: Identified - Allen & Thurber, 1845, Patented, Bar Hammer, Percussion Boot Pistol

Post by adavis »

I just wrapped up the non abrasive cleaning steps for the barrel interior.
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The touch hole/vent was completely blocked but it was possible to bend a needle into a hook shape and break through the gunk after a long soak in penetrating oil.The touch hole is located at the base of the barrel and has a 90 degree bend out to the nipple.

It looks like it just needs a good scrub now. As bad as this pistol looks on the outside I get the feeling things are not so bad inside.
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