James Reid ‘My Friend’ Knuckle Duster 1 3/4” 7-Shot .22LR, Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $1,041.00

LSB#: LSB251102MK024

Make: James Reid

Model: ‘My Friend’ Knuckle Duster

Serial Number: 16927

Year of Manufacture:  Antique / Approximately 1880-82, with serial numbers from 3,500-17715, made from 1868 to 1882.

Caliber: .22 Rimfire, Black Powder

Action Type: 7-Shot, Single Action Revolver

Markings: The left of the frame’s top strap is marked “MY FRIEND PATD. DEC. 26, 1865”, the frame and side plate have tasteful scroll engraving with cross hatching on some of the negative spaces. The front of the frame at the grip has the serial number “16927”.

Barrel Length:  1 3/4″  The cylinder chambers are technically the barrels as well, the front of the frame extends another 3/16” without rifling.

Sights / Optics: The top of the frame has a shallow “U” channel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol has an enclosed front strap with a rear arched strap, the back of which has checkering in the upper areas.

Type of Finish: Silver Plated

Finish Originality: Orignal

Bore Condition: The cylinder chambers have a few spots of mild erosion and are mid gray.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 75% of its metal finish. The cylinder only has a small amount of plating on the rear and forward edges, the exposed metal has a few spots of pitting and brown patina is regular. The frame has thinning of finish on the trigger guard and backstrap area along with scattered scuff and compression marks.  The rubbing through the plating exposes areas of the brass frame, which has a nice natural patina. The screw heads are lightly tooled. The markings are somewhat faded on the frame, all are legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The cylinder needs to be wiggled into position to allow the hammer to advance its mechanics. 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: The James Reid “My Friend” knuckle duster revolver is one of the most distinctive and evocative pocket arms of the late nineteenth century, embodying the improvisational ingenuity of the post Civil War period. Designed and patented in December of 1865 by James Reid after his move to Catskill, New York, the “My Friend” combined a compact rimfire revolver with an integrated knuckle guard, reflecting an era when personal defense weapons were expected to be discreet, immediate, and effective at arm’s length. Produced from 1868 to 1882, these revolvers occupy a unique niche in American arms history, blurring the line between firearm and impact weapon.

This example, dating to approximately 1880 to 1882 production and falling near the upper end of known serial ranges, retains about 75 percent of its original factory silver plated finish. Wear is consistent with age and handling, with thinning along the trigger guard and backstrap, scattered scuffs and compression marks, and areas where the plating has worn through to reveal the underlying brass frame with an attractive natural patina. The cylinder retains plating primarily at the edges, while exposed surfaces show light pitting and regular brown toning. The engraved scrollwork and cross hatching remain visible, and although softened, the frame markings are fully legible, reinforcing the pistol’s authenticity and period character.

The cylinder chambers show mild erosion typical of black powder .22 rimfire use and present a mid gray appearance. Mechanically, the cylinder requires manual alignment to allow the hammer to advance, a condition commonly encountered on surviving examples of this pattern. Despite this, the revolver remains an outstanding artifact of nineteenth century concealed carry design, valued more for its historical and visual impact than mechanical refinement. With its unmistakable form, honest condition, and strong remaining finish, this “My Friend” stands as a compelling and conversation worthy example of Victorian era ingenuity. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF