Shotgun Hammer Single Shot Pistols - Allen Thurber

Allen's Shotgun Hammer Percussion Pistols

Commercial era:

Allen & Thurber

Allen, Thurber & Co

Allen & Wheelock

Production period:

From late 1840's until the civil war era
Production quantity:

Considering the extended production period and the large number of surviving pieces, production appears to have been substantial, with quantities estimated at more than 15,000. However, the muff version is extremely scarce.

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 produced in multiple calibers—.32, .36, and .44—with barrel lengths ranging from 3 to 12 inches. They featured a screw-off barrel design to simplify loading. The hammer was offset slightly to the right, enabling the use of sights. These pistols operated in single action only and did not include a half-cock notch. Standard versions were finished in blue and fitted with walnut grips, and they generally bore minimal markings.

The barrel flats are usually stamped with the manufacturer’s name and the serial number. Markings indicating the place of manufacture and the word “Caststeel,” as seen in this example, are not consistently present.

The pistols were never engraved, a notable distinction from the Bar Hammer pistols and contemporary pepperboxes of the same era.

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.