This is a fairly scarce B.F. Joslyn Revolver made in Stonington Connecticut from 1861-62.  Only 3000 were produced with 1100 purchased privately and subsequentally issued to the 5th and 6th Ohio Cavalry.  Other small quantities of Joslyns were issued to State military units from Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, and Minneasota. Its believed that none of these guns bear US or State markings. The US Navy also purchased a small quantity of Joslyns in 1861 which are marked on the bottomstrap. 

This particular gun is fairly early and in the 500 serial range and almost certainly produced in 1861.  Barrel measures 8" with a .44 caliber 5 shot cylinder.  This gun almost has a cartoon-like appearance to it with its long octagon barrel, massive steel frame+cylinder, large grips, all contrasting against a small and almost delicate looking trigger guard and long, thin loading lever.  The small side hammer also contrasts strongly with the massive appearance of this gun.  This design never won any beauty contests but its well built and quite unique. 

Overall condition is NRA Antique Good condition. The metal has at some point been placed in less than ideal storage conditions.  At some point, it was cleaned up giving it a dull grey appearance.  Nonetheless, it shows and photographs quite well and still has good sharp edges. There are some minor light pinprick pits here and there but the gun has pleasant even appearance to it.  The barrel address is partially visible with the top line reading "B.F. Joslyn" but the patent date is mostly gone...should say "May 4, 1858."  Original checkered wood grips are in remarkable shape....Very Good+ at least with sharp checkering....no chips, cracks or repairs. Action is in very good condition still working quite well...even the half-cock position works.  A good solid example of a hard-to-find Civil War used revolver for a priced below the market.

Item# 0361

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