This is an outstanding example of a Volcanic No. 2 Navy lever action pistol manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co. between 1857 and 1860. The pistol has a blued eight-inch barrel with integral magazine, large Navy-style brass receiver, casehardened hammer and loading lever and two-piece varnished walnut grips. A brass cone front sight is mounted on the barrel and a fixed open rear sight is mounted in a dovetail on the receiver. The serial number "2026" is stamped on the right side of the of the lever, the left side of the frame underneath the grip and stamped on the inside of both grips. All of the visible serial numbers match. The end of the barrel is stamped with the assembly number "349" beneath the barrel sleeve. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "PATENTED NEW HAVEN CONN. FEB. 14. 1854". This is the abbreviated marking utilized by Oliver Winchester for the NEW HAVEN ARMS Co. after he assumed control of the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. in April, 1857. Experts estimate that the New Haven Arms Co. manufactured 700-1,000 No. 2 lever action pistols.
Very fine. The pistol retains 90% plus of the original blue finish on the barrel and integral magazine. Wear is limited to some high points and minor handling marks and scratches. The lightly stamped barrel markings are clear. The once polished brass frame is in fine condition. The side plate joints are extremely tight and the receiver has minimal handling marks. The hammer and loading lever have a mottled gray patina with strong traces of the casehardened finish. The grips are also in very fine condition, nearly 90% of the high polish finish is present. The only significant wear is a small chip on the heel of the left grip. This is a fantastic example of a key piece in the evolution of U.S. repeating firearms and the history of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co.
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