Original Item: Only One Available. This is one of the great romantic era Imperial German Army Revolvers, complete with a holster and great regimental markings! 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Modell  1879 and 1883, were service revolvers used by the German Army from 1879 to 1908, when they were superseded by the Luger.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 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 CROWN / ERFURT / 1892, indicating manufacture at the Imperial Arsenal in Erfurt Germany in 1892. Our Revolver also bears all matching serial number 273 / d, even on the inside of the grip scales and the small screws (37). There are various proof marks on the different parts of the gun. The bottom of the grip frame near the lanyard loop is is marked with the Crown / FW proof on the butt, for German Emperor Wilhelm II, who used the F.W. monogram, just as his grandfather Wilhelm I had.

The back strap of the grip is marked with several Imperial German regimental designations, one of which was partially stamped out, and then a second one. The original marking looks to be O A I M K 1, which we have been told is for a unit stationed in the PRUSSIAN LEGATION, perhaps in Peking or at the Prussian trade center in South Western China. This was one of the areas affected by the Boxer Rebellion, which took place Nov 2, 1899 – Sep 7, 1901. We have unfortunately not been able to find out more information, and leave this as a great research opportunity! 

The second regimental designation is 143. R. 9. 5., for the 143rd (4th Lower Alsasian) Infantry Regiment, first raised in 1890 and garrisoned in Straßburg, Mutzig, part of the often disputed Alsace-Lorraine area, now part of France.

The revolver is in very good condition, and still has a lot of the original polished blue finish, with other components being oxidized steel. Bore is mostly bright with clear lands and grooves, with signs of light wear and oxidation. The action is tight and works well, with an intact loading gate and original lanyard ring both still present..

The pistol comes in a very nice original issue leather holster, which has a partially open top. Under the flap it is maker marked L. RITGEN / KARLSRUHE, a known maker of Imperial German holsters during the late 19th / early 20th century period. The holster is in very good condition considering the age, with a lovely dark brown color from years of age and wear. Some of the stitching has pulled a bit, and the strap for the cartridge pouch on front is a bit delicate, but otherwise it's a great example of the holster for this revolver.

In full working order, very substantial and a great example of a solid German design, with wonderful regimental markings linking it to the boxer rebellion. Complete with an original holster and ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: 1892
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 10 inches
Action: Single Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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