Description

This exquisite front loading 1863 Lucius W. Pond .22 Caliber Revolver is a rare gem from the American Civil War era, now available for collectors at antiquearmory.com. Crafted by Lucius W. Pond of Worcester, Massachusetts, this antique firearm showcases innovative design and historical significance. Marked with “L.W. POND WORCESTER MASS. PAT’D SEPT. 8, 1863” on the octagonal barrel, this revolver reflects Pond’s attempt to circumvent the Rollin White patent held by Smith & Wesson, utilizing a unique front-loading mechanism with removable steel chambers. Produced in limited quantities—approximately 2,000 units in .22 caliber—this piece stands out as a testament to mid-19th-century ingenuity and the competitive firearms market of the time.

The 1863 .22 Caliber revolver features a 3.5-inch octagonal barrel and a 7-shot unfluted cylinder, constructed with a brass frame that retains a muted, aged patina, hinting at its original silver-plated finish. The blued steel barrel and cylinder show a smooth, plum-toned patina with about 20-30% of the original finish, adding to its authentic character. The wooden grips, likely walnut or rosewood, exhibit a dark, well-worn finish with minor handling marks, preserving their historical charm. The spur trigger design, devoid of a traditional guard, is a distinctive feature, complemented by a functional single-action mechanism that operates smoothly, though it is sold as a collector’s item and not warranted for shooting.

This fine Lucius Pond front loading revolver example includes its original removable chamber inserts, a rare find given their delicate nature and the passage of over 160 years. The bore remains in good condition with visible rifling, though some light corrosion is present, consistent with its age. The revolver’s compact size and lightweight construction made it a popular choice for private purchase during the Civil War, though it was never officially adopted by the military. Its historical context is enriched by Pond’s legal battles with Smith & Wesson, which led to the confiscation of thousands of his earlier designs, making surviving pieces like this one highly sought after.

Displayed on a custom stand, this Lucius W. Pond front loading revolver is in very good overall condition for its age, with matching serial numbers on the frame, barrel, and cylinder (where visible), adding to its collectible value. Ideal for enthusiasts of Civil War-era firearms or those interested in the evolution of American gunmaking, this piece offers a tangible connection to the past.

Please note that, as an antique firearm manufactured prior to 1899, it is exempt from federal firearms regulations under U.S. law (Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16)), but buyers are responsible for complying with local laws. Secure this rare artifact for your collection today at antiquearmory.com!