Suhl Germany Model 1883 Imperial Reichs 10.6x25mmR 4 5/8″ SA Revolver, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1025
LSB#: 210917MW93
Make: Suhl, Germany
Model: Imperial German Reich Revolver Model 1883
Serial Number: 8851
Year of Manufacture: 1885-1917
Caliber: 10.6x25mmR
Action Type: Single Action Only 6-Shot Revolver
Markings: The left side plate is marked “V.C.S. * C.G.H. / SUHL” and with the serial number. Most of the screws, the grip escutcheons, and other smaller parts are marked “51”. The left side of the frame just rear of the barrel is marked with the serial number. The left rear flat of the barrel is marked with the serial number and a German proof mark. The bottom flat of the barrel is marked “S / S” and the bottom of the frame just rear of the barrel is marked “S”. The bottom of the frame just ahead of the trigger guard and the bottom of the grip are marked with a “crown / W” proof. The front of the loading gate is marked with the serial number and a small character. The chambers on the cylinder are marked 1-6 respectively. The front face of the cylinder is marked “Z” with a shaded background over a normal “Z”. The rear face is marked with the serial number and a German eagle proof mark. There are other small proof marks on various parts of the gun.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall pinched blade integral to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a V-notch at the rear of the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels. There is a chip at the top of the left panel. There are several scattered compressions, scratches, and draglines throughout the panels. There are a couple of tiny gashes on the left panel as well. The grips rate in about Fair-Good condition.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Polished Bright
Bore Condition: The bore is partially bright with some scattered erosion and pitting. The rifling is defined where not interrupted.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 0% of its metal finish. The barrel shows a mottled light patina throughout. There is scattered erosion and pitting throughout the frame. There are several little nicks and small dings on the various metal surfaces. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fair condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lock-up produces barely perceptible play. There is a frame mounted safety that locks the hammer. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: As stated by Bob Shell, “The Model 1883 Reichsrevolver was a hefty solid-frame single-action revolver. It was based on the first Reichsrevolver, the Model 1879. That gun weighed 2.5 pounds and measured a foot long. It was the first centerfire handgun adopted by the fledgling German Empire—a simple design in line with similar European revolvers of the period. As mentioned, it had a seven-inch barrel, and the subsequent Model 1883 featured a shorter 4 5/8-inch barrel (some references say five-inch). It was notable for being one of the few military revolvers with a safety lever, which could be placed in the Safe position when the hammer was at half cock. The gun was in use until 1908, when it was replaced by the 9mm Luger—although it saw service in World War I and to a small extent World War II when the Germans found their backs to the wall. It also saw action in the Boxer Rebellion and various colonial skirmishes.” This rifle has strong mechanics and would make a neat addition to a revolver collection. Please see our photos and good luck!