Original Item: One of a Kind. This is a very nice example of a rare rimfire conversion of the .44cal "Army" version of the "Center-Hammer" Percussion Revolvers made by Ethan Allen and his brother-in-law Thomas Wheelock in Worcester, Mass. In 1856 the two formed a partnership that lasted until Wheelock's death in 1865. The firm had successfully marketed a .44 caliber "Army" model revolver and then introduced their .36 caliber "Navy" model, both in "side hammer" and "Center Hammer" versions.

The "Center-Hammer" revolvers were an improvement of the earlier "Side-Hammer" guns, which had deficiencies with ease of loading, as well as frame strength. Moving the hammer to the center allowed for a stronger frame, which is what the U.S. Army Ordnance Dept was looking for. There were cartridge revolvers at the time, but the U.S. Army was conservative, and only wanted the trusted technology of percussion revolvers. The Center-Hammer did retain one key feature from the side hammer version: the unique combination trigger guard/loading lever.

Our example here has a 7 1/2"" barrel and retains a blue/black finish. The markings are mostly worn away, no doubt at time of conversion from Percussion Cap to Rim fire. However it is still marked with serial number 30 under the grip frame, on the barrel axis pin, and on both wood grip scales. 

Our example is in full operating order and has a very pleasant grey metal finish overall. The cylinder lock is strong, and it indexes and cycles properly when cocked. As with any revolver of this age, it can be a bit finicky at times. It still retains its original walnut wood grips, which are in great shape. The bore is a bit rusty, but lands and grooves are still clear. The loading lever still functions, now adapted as an ejector, and the rammer goes all the way to the end of the cylinder.

It is reported that Allen & Wheelock Army Revolvers converted to CARTRIDGE guns are rare and very hard to find. Unusual and ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1860-65
Caliber:  .44cal
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 7 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 13 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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