[afd363]

Hello, I was recently given a revolver by a friend who inherited it. We believe it is pre 1899. I cannot find much information on the net about it. Its a 5 shot single action .32 top break with Chicago Arms Co on top of the barrel. The handle is pearl over plastic? Serial number 259### found on bottom on handle only. The only information I have found is conflicting. One site says the Chicago Arms Co (1880-1895) revolvers were made by Meridian firearms (1904-1915) so those years conflict. Is there anyway to confirm it is pre 1899?? Thanks guys!!

 

[RJay]

Yes, it can be confusing, Chicago Arms Co. operated between 1880 and 1890,They produced a small Palm gun. Meriden used the name Chicago Arms Co. as a " Trade Name ", very common practice at the time, if the name had not been trade marked. Your gun was is a very inexpensive ( about 1.78$ when new, by mail order ) revolver made by Meriden. Based on that it was made after 1904.

 

[afd363]

Ahh! Well thank you very much Sir, that makes much more sense!!