Allen's Shotgun Hammer Percussion Pistols

Commercial era:

Allen & Thurber

Allen, Thurber & Co

Allen & Wheelock

Content:

Detailed pictures of collection models 

Overview

  • Production period: ---From late 1840's until civil war period

  • Production quantity: ----Quantities unknown but estimated at several thousands

These pistols belong to the family of firearms known by various names like Shotgun Hammer pistols,  Center Hammer pistols or Boot pistols. The official identification of Allen was the No.6  Rifled Pistol. The reason behind these names is fairly easy to guess, however, you could argue that Boot pistol would only apply to the versions with a barrel length of at least 6 inches. Production started during the Allen & Thurber period and lasted until the end of the Allen & Wheelock period.

For individuals seeking a straightforward, durable, and reasonably priced firearm with considerable firepower, this pistol stood as an excellent option. The pistols were available in different calibers (.32, .36, and .44) and came with barrel lengths spanning from 3 to 12 inches.  The barrel is of the screw-off type for easy loading. The hammer is placed slightly to the right to allow the use of sights. The pistol is single action only and lacks a half-cock position. The standard model featured a blued finish and walnut grips, while markings on these pistols were rather scarce. 

Three different barrel sizes: 7.25 inch, 5 inch and 3 inch

The barrel flats are typically marked with manufacturer’s name and serial number. The location and “Caststeel” as in this example are not always present. 

The pistols were never engraved which is a distinct difference from the Bar Hammer pistols and pepperboxes of the same period. 

During the early Worcester period, a compact version entered the lineup, known as the muff pistol. 

These muff pistols are generally devoid of any markings, except for a few rare examples.

Some detailed pictures of a 3″ barrel pistol in nearly mint condition.  It is extremely rare to find a boot pistol in this condition. This particular specimen has been produced in the Allen & Wheelock period.

Note the deep rifling of the barrel
Allen & Wheelock barrel marking
COLLECTION

Allen & Thurber Boot Pistol with 5" barrel

The shown model has the Allen & Thurber marking and is probably from the Worcester period.

  • Caliber: .32"

  • Serial number: #483, barrel #818

  • Length: Barrel:12,5 cm (5"), Total:23 cm

  • Weight: 510 gr

  • Barrel markings: ALLEN & THURBER

Allen & Wheelock Boot Pistol with 8" barrel

This specimen is from later vintage having the Allen & Wheelock marking from the Worcester period.

  • Caliber: .32"

  • Serial number: #120

  • Length: Barrel:20,3 cm (8"), Total:30 cm

  • Weight: 607 gr

  • Barrel markings: ALLEN & WHEELOCK

From the P.O. Collection