Dixie Model 1861 Eli Whitney Navy .36 Cal Percussion Revolver, ATF Antique
SOLD FOR: $1035
LSB#: 220316CA358
Make: Made by Palmetto in Italy for Dixie Gun Works
Model: 1861 Whitney Navy Replica
Serial Number: 000185
Year of Manufacture: Modern, ATF Antique
Caliber: .36 Caliber, Cap & Ball
Action Type: Single Action Percussion Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIXIE GUN WORKS, INC.”. The top of the barrel is marked “1861 E. WHITNEY .36 CALIBER”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BLACK POWDER ONLY”. The underside of the barrel is marked “185”. The left side of the grip frame under the grip panel is marked “195”. The cylinder is marked with the serial number “000185”, two Italian proof marks and a Palmetto logo.
Barrel Length: 7.5”, Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post fixed to the barrel above the muzzle. The rear sight is a U-notch grooved into the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood. There are a few light nicks and dings in the grips, most notable on the left panel near the grip screw and at the bottom edge of the right panel. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in Very Good-Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue, Case Color & Brass
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at most edges. There is some finish wear on the frame, mostly in the grip areas. The top strap has a plum hue. There are some scattered minor nicks and scuffs. The action shows light operational wear including a thin turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks in each position with a tiny bit of play. 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: Eli Whiteny (1765-1825) is one of the most famous inventors to have ever lived. He is most famous for the cotton gin which had a profound effect on the American economy in the early 19th century, particularly in the South, but he also was heavily involved in the firearms industry. He was a major advocate for manufacturing firearms that had interchangeable parts, an idea that, in a modern context at least, originated with French General and inventor Jean-Baptise Vaquette Frechencourt de Gribeauval (1715-1789). Whitney entered the firearms business in 1798 securing a contract to supply the United States with between 10,000-15,000 muskets by 1800. Whitney passed away in 1825, but his armory remained in operation until 1880 when the company finally closed its doors.
This 1861 Eli Whitney .36 Caliber revolver replica made by Palmetto for importer, Dixie Gun Works, keeps the original design alive and would make for a great conversation piece or a fun shooter for a black powder enthusiast. Good luck in your bidding!