German Officers Model 1879 Reichs Revolver (AH6637)

The Model 1879 Reichsrevolver, or Reichs-Commissions-Revolver Modell 1879, was used by the German army until it was replaced by the P08 Luger in 1908. We call this Model 1879 Reichsrevolver an Officer's model based on the low serial number of 99 (frame and cylinder), the shorter than standard barrel, the high polish blue finish, the finely checkered grips, and the silver-outlined manufacturer's name. It was manufactured by F. von Dreyse of Sommerda. Franz von Dreyse was the son of Johann Nicholas von Dreyse, the inventor of the German needle fire rifle. These revolvers are single action only and are fitted with a safety lever on the left side of the frame. It functions differently depending on the hammer position. If it is fully cocked, the safety locks it completely. If it is i n half-cock, the hammer is locked there but the cylinder can be loaded or removed. The Model 1879 also has a ring on the bottom of the grip so it can be secured to the uniform. The 6" round 10.55X26R mm centerfire barrel has an excellent bor with bright, strong rifling. The revolver retains approx. 95% blue with fading in a few areas. The top strap is marked in silver inlay F.V. DREYSE SOMMERDA. The finely checkered grips are excellent with no cracks or chips and very light wear. The action functions correctly. This is a great example of a rarely seen Dreyse revolver. It is the only one of this type we have seen.