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Original Imperial German M1883 Reichsrevolver by Erfurt Arsenal Dated 1893 – Matching Serial 1971 a

$2,195.00

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Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers! The M1879 and M1883 Reichsrevolvers, or Reichs-Commissions-Revolver Modell 1879 and 1883, were service revolvers used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when they were superseded by the Luger. The Model of 1879 was issued with a 7″ 10.6mm x 25R mm Barrel, which sported a rather fancy ring to the muzzle. In 1883 they introduced a shorter barrel version that had only a 5″ barrel, the M1883. Although the design was dated, the weapon was extremely robust, and they were still used through World War I. The M1879 is referred to as the “cavalry model” and the M1883 as the “officer’s model,” by collectors, which were not official designations.

These revolvers were single action only and were fitted with a robust safety lever on the left hand side of the frame, which functions differently depending on hammer position. If the hammer is in the fire position, the safety locks the hammer completely. If in the half-cock position, it locks the hammer there, facilitating reloading of the revolver or removal of the cylinder. They also have a very robust split ring on the bottom of the grip, for securing the revolver to the uniform.

There were made by various different makers, and this example is marked somewhat faintly with CROWN / ERFURT / 1893

on the left frame, indicating manufacture at the Imperial Arsenal in Erfurt Germany during 1893. This marking and many others have been highlighted in white to make them easier to see. Our Revolver also bears ALL MATCHING serial number 1971 / a on all major parts of the gun, even on the inside of the grip scales (971) and the small screws (71). It is also marked with the caliber 10,6 on the left side of the barrel, and there are various proof marks on the different parts of the gun, including multiple German Imperial Eagle proofs. We do not see any proofs or regiment markings on the grip frame near the lanyard loop, though they may have been removed in the past, or simply never marked. 

Cosmetically, the revolver is still in very good shape, with much of the original blued finish on the exterior still present, showing wear around the corners and muzzle, as well as some light denting in areas. It looks to have seen only light service, and is really a great representative example, with all parts still present. The grips are in very good condition, showing light to moderate wear from use, with some small dents and other wear, but no major damage. The original lanyard split ring is still present on the bottom of the grip, and is in very nice shape.

The revolver functions well, with no mechanical deficiencies to note. It indexes perfectly with a strong cylinder lockup and crisp dry fire, and the safety is fully functional, allowing only movement to the loading position on the tumbler when set. The cylinder base pin can be removed when the securing latch is in the down position, allowing the cylinder to be removed for cleaning. It does stick a bit, and we needed a small brass hammer to “convince” it to come out. The loading get is present and fully functional. We checked the bore, and it is in very good condition. showing a mostly bright finish with crisp lands and grooves. There is a bit of wear, and some small spots of past fouling and oxidation, now cleaned away. It looks like it only saw light use, and was relatively well maintained.

In full working order, very substantial and a great example of a solid German design. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1893
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 10 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.

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Vendor Information

  • Store Name: International Military Antiques
  • Vendor: International Military Antiques
  • Address: 1000 Valley Road Gillette, NJ 07933
    Gillette, NJ 07933
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