Rare Dreyse Single Shot Needle Fire Pistol (AH6465)

Baron von Dreyse's needle fire rifle was the first major step toward what we know today as the modern cartridge firearm. In addition to rifles and carbines, he also manufactured pistols, the most common of which is a needle fire revolver. Starting in the 1830s, von Dreyse also manufactured single shot needle fire pistols, the most common of which is the Model 1835 with a side mounted operating lever. This rare single shot Dreyse needle fire pistol may predate the Model 1835. It is operated with a bottom lever which swings the barrel to the side for loading.  The overall length is approx. 15 5/8". The approx. 8.75" swamped octagon 37 caliber (marked Cal. 9.5mm 2/24P inside the action) rifled barrel has a fair bore with areas of pitting. However, this doesn't matter much as the pistol is fitted with what appears to be a 22 caliber chamber insert for parlor shooting. There is a blade front sight and an adjustable notch rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked F. v. DREYSE SOMMERADA (factory name and location). The pistol cocks on opening. The only other marking are the serial number, 26991, located on the top grip tang and barrel bottom and crown over V proof marks at the breech. The barrel and action have a smooth blue-brown patina with light mottling. The spur trigger guard and operating lever have a gray-brown patina. The rear of the breech has two silver bands with silver scroll inlay forward of that. There is decorative engraving on the barrel latch escutcheon, the operating lever, the trigger guard, the butt cap, and the rear tang. The rear tang and butt cap are configured for the attachment of a shoulder stock. The stock is fine with light usage dents and dings, a small chip at the butt cap, fine checkering on the grips, and no other chips or cracks. The action, which features an adjustable trigger, functions correctly. If you collect needle fire guns, especially the Dreyse series of firearms, this very interesting single shot Dreyse pistol is a must.