1860 Whitney Pocket, 2nd Model, .32 Cal, 6″ Barrel

Description

A nice, version of a 1860 Whitney Pocket, 2nd Model, .32 Cal, 6″ Barrel.  Little to no cylinder scene remains.  No exposed serial numbers, Serial numbers under trigger guard is 14,184.  Cylinder doesn’t advance properly at all times – it does when pistol is held with barrel down (indicting a broken hand spring).  Everything else functions as expected.

 The Whitney Pocket Model classification includes a variety of small caliber revolvers.  The earliest one came on the scene around 1850, followed by a series of improved revolvers .   As indicated by the name, these “pocket” revolvers were designed to be easily carried by civilians.  They are primarily 31 caliber revolvers, with a few models made in 28 caliber.

Whitney, and other firearms manufacturers struggled to produce reliable “revolvers” during the early 1850s.  Sam Colt’s patent on his revolving mechanism did not expire until 1857.  Prior to that time, Whitney and others had to offer alternative methods of turning the cylinder.   After the patent expired, Whitney was ready with his Navy Model revolver and a Pocket Model that closely resembled the Navy Model.