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

[adavis]

Just picked up a new project to join the club.

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

[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.

[adavis]

Maybe a 1856 to 1859 Manhattan Firearms Bar Hammer Percussion Single shot Pistol (.34)?

[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.

[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.

[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.

[adavis]

This is what it is supposed to look like!

[adavis]

The barrel has an interesting and distinct hexagon pattern.

[smithy]

Polygonal rifling? That looks similar to a few older enfields that I saw back in the day (possibly).

[adavis]

I just wrapped up the non abrasive cleaning steps for the barrel interior.

barrel2.png (479.18 KiB) Viewed 71336 times

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.