In the mid-1970s, the Spanish manufacturer Astra produced a high-quality reproduction of the Ethan Allen-style pepperbox, marketed under the name “Gold Rush”—a reference to the heydays of pepperbox pistols and the many pepperboxes that were carried by prospectors during the Californian gold rush..
The frame, along with the grip plates and trigger guard, was entirely cast and available in either a silver or gold finish. These .22 caliber pepperboxes were packaged in a simple cardboard box, which included a powder measure, an instruction card, and a starter supply of percussion caps and lead balls.
The Dixie Gun Works Antique Arms Catalog of 1997 listed these pepperboxes still for sale. As noted in the advertisement, they were part of a “left-over” stock, which explains the relatively late sale date compared to their original production period. The pepperboxes were offered at a price of $89.95 each.
Both the frame and barrel are richly decorated, adding a distinctive visual appeal. However, the high-gloss silver or gold finish of the frame lends the pepperbox a somewhat kitschy appearance, which did not suit all tastes.
Some pepperbox owners have modified the frame finish to achieve a more authentic appearance—such as the example shown in the photo to the right.
The pepperboxes lack any serial or assembly numbering. The only marking found on these guns is located on the right side of the trigger guard and reads: “Black Powder Only / Spain.”
The internal design of the double action mechanism closely follows that of the original Allen pepperboxes.
Additionally, the percussion nipples are machined as an integral part of the barrel cluster, just as in the Allen models.
The Silver Frame Gold Rush Pepperbox
This is the standard silver plated version of the pepperbox