USA - Massachusetts Arms Co. Adams Patent Double Action Pocket Percussion Revolver - 31cal pocket - Assault - Percussion - Revolver - 31 bore

rare pistol this is number 16 of the 4500 made serial number 16 on frame and cylinder The basis of this design was patented in England in 1851 by Robert Adams as well as improvements by Lt. Beaumont. They are much sturdier than Colt's multi-part, open-top revolvers due to the single casting forming the barrel, frame, and grip frame. It was Adams' design that is often credited with forcing Colt to close his London factory. The Massachusetts Arms Co. received a contract to manufacture revolvers for the U. S. government in 1857, and also produced 4,500 these pocket models for the civilian market in . 31 calibre, the same as Colt's ever-popular Model 1849 Pocket, up until 1861 when they shifted focus to Maynard carbines under Civil War contracts. , "MADE FOR ADAMS REVOLVING ARMS CO. N. Y. /BY MASS. ARMS CO. CHICOPEE FALLS. /PATENT MAY 3. 1853. JUNE 3. 1856. APL 7. 1857. " and a notch rear sight on the top strap, a loading lever on the left side of the barrel fair condition with an od screw missing but rare