Dreyse M1879 German Reichsrevolver 10.6x25mmR Revolver, MFD 1882 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1576
LSB#: 210218WW18
Make: Franz Von Dreyse
Model: Reichsrevolver M1879
Serial Number: 7485
Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: 10.6x25mmR
Action Type: 6-Shot, Single Action, Side Loading Gate Revolver with Manual Safety
Markings: The sideplate has an F.V. Dreyse maker’s mark. The left of the frame is marked “82” in front of the cylinder. The left of the barrel, left of the frame, the sideplate, the top of the cylinder pin head, the rear of the cylinder and the inside of each grip panel are marked “7485”. The front face of the loading gate is marked “485”. Each screw head, the cylinder pin retainer, the safety lever, each grip screw escutcheon, the trigger, hammer, hand, cylinder stop, trigger guard, mainspring, and trigger spring are each marked “85”. There are eagle inspection marks on the left of the barrel and the rear of the cylinder. There are script letter inspection marks on the front of the loading gate, the bottom of the barrel, the grip cap at the front and the top of the cylinder pin head. There are a few other scattered inspection marks. The top-left shoulder of the barrel is marked “10,55”. The outside of the cylinder is marked from “1” to “6” at each chamber. The backstrap is marked “7.T.S.2.153”.
Barrel Length: 4 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch in the topstrap.
Stock Configuration AND Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut. The grips have a few light nicks, scuffs, and scratches along with scattered light compressions. The wood is generally a little proud to the metal. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is still quite bright and the rifling is well-defined. There is no erosion in the bore, but a small bit of minor fouling can be seen at the forcing cone.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 66% of its metal finish. There is a distinct turn line on the cylinder, which has mostly gone to white, with scattered light nicks and a few scuffs. The frame, in the area around the thumb lever, has gone to white and has moderate operational wear. There is also light thinning on most edges along with spots of light finish loss and a few scuffs. The barrel has light thinning on most edges as well as scattered light surface oxidation, light scratches and nicks. The action has light operational wear. The screw heads are toolmarked with deep, strong slots. The markings are generally clear, some are worn, but all are visible. Overall, this handgun rates in Good-to-Very Good condition, as antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is heavy, but crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Following the consolidation and creation of the German Empire, Germany was faced with integrating several different militaries of the German states into one German Army. Part of this involved standardizing sidearms, and the M1879 was adopted to serve as the Reichsrevolver, the revolver which would be the sidearm of all German Empire forces. Officially replaced in 1908 by the Luger, the M1879 would continue to see use all the way through the Great War. This example will make a great collector piece for its condition and matching numbered parts. Good luck and happy bidding!