Ethan Allen started his firearms business in the 1830s, initially producing single-shot percussion pistols like the "Pocket Rifle." In 1837, he partnered with Charles Thurber, forming Allen & Thurber, and the company began operating out of Grafton, Massachusetts. Over the years, they relocated production—first to Norwich, Connecticut (1842–1847), then to Worcester, Massachusetts (1847–1854)—and became renowned for their pepperbox revolvers and single-shot pistols. The 1845 patent you’re referencing marks a key milestone in their production history.
The 1845 Patent
On April 16, 1845, Ethan Allen secured U.S. Patent No. 3998, which improved upon his earlier 1837 patent (No. 461) for a double-action mechanism. The 1845 patent simplified the double-action system, making it more reliable and easier to mass-produce. This innovation applied to both their famous pepperbox revolvers and single-shot pistols, including the bar hammer designs. The "Allen's Patent 1845" marking often appears on the hammer or frame of these firearms, indicating they incorporate this updated mechanism.
Bar Hammer Design
The "bar hammer" refers to the distinctive hammer shape—a flat, elongated bar positioned on top of the barrel, as opposed to a traditional side-mounted or under-mounted hammer. This design reduced the likelihood of the hammer snagging on clothing, making it practical for concealed carry, such as in a pocket or boot (hence the "boot pistol" moniker). The bar hammer was a feature of some of Allen & Thurber’s single-shot pistols and was also used in variations of their pepperbox revolvers. It’s a double-action weapon, meaning a single pull of the trigger cocks and releases the hammer, firing the gun—a significant advancement at the time.
Percussion Boot Pistol
This firearm is a percussion weapon, using a cap-and-ball ignition system typical of the era. A percussion cap, placed on a nipple, would ignite the black powder charge in the barrel when struck by the hammer. The "boot pistol" designation suggests a compact, concealable size, likely with a short barrel (typically 2–4 inches), designed to be tucked into a boot or pocket. Calibers for these pistols usually ranged from .30 to .36, with .31 and .34 being common for Allen & Thurber products. The barrel might be half-octagonal, half-round, and the frame often featured decorative scroll engraving, a hallmark of their craftsmanship
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Production Context
The pistol you’re asking about was likely made during the Worcester period (1847–1854), when the company was branded as Allen & Thurber, though some bar hammer pistols might have been produced earlier in Norwich or later under different company names (e.g., Allen, Thurber & Co., 1854–1856, or Allen & Wheelock, 1856–1865). The "1845" marking reflects the patent date, not necessarily the exact year of manufacture. These pistols were popular during the Gold Rush era and the lead-up to the Civil War, valued for their affordability (much cheaper than Colt revolvers) and ease of use.
Features and Use
- Caliber: Likely .30–.36, smoothbore or rifled, depending on the specific model.
- Barrel Length: Around 2–4 inches, ideal for concealment.
- Action: Double-action, per the 1845 patent.
- Markings: Typically "ALLEN'S PATENT 1845" on the hammer, sometimes with "ALLEN & THURBER" or "WORCESTER" on the barrel or frame.
- Grips: Usually walnut, sometimes with a "bag-style" rounded shape in later Worcester models.
- Purpose: A personal defense weapon, easy to carry and quick to draw, favored by civilians, travelers, and even some soldiers as a backup arm.