Allen Patent Single Shot With original takedown tool / SOLD

Allen Patent Single Shot With original takedown tool / mold - Inventory Number: HAN 269 / SOLD

Early percussion pocket pistol, made in the 1840's for the U.S. Market by Ethan Allen of Massachusetts (1808-1871). Allen developed his Gun business by taking his brother-in-law Charles Thurber as his partner, and they moved the plant to Worcester, Mass. Ethan Allen, no relation to the Revolutionary Ethan Allen, applied for various patents, most notably early on for a "TUBE HAMMER" ignition system in 1845.

This example measures approximately 5 inches long, and has the 1845 Patent "TUBE HAMMER", which is marked on the flat of the hammer: “PATENTED - April 16th 1845”

It has a wooden bag style grip; a trigger protected by a trigger guard and has a single 2 1/2-inch steel barrel in approximately .38 Caliber smooth bore. The frame has lovely decorative engraving on both sides, as well as some engraving work on the grip back strap. Condition is very good, with warm patina.

Ethan Allen took into his business another brother-in-law, Thomas Wheelock, and later his two Sons-in-law, Sullivan Forehand, and Henry Wadsworth, who continued the business after Ethan Allen's death in 1871. Most interesting that all these names have become an integral part of the U.S. arms industry.

The takedown tool / bullet mold is rarer than the gun itself.  It features a hexagonal opening for unscrewing the barrel.  The mold features a pai of round cavities.  Very nice set for display!

Comes housed in 8 x 12 riker display case with red velvet and descriptive card.

Inventory Number: HAN 269 / SOLD