James Reid My Friend Knuckle Duster Revolver .22 Rimfire 7-Shot Antique

SOLD FOR: $1,712.00

LSB#: LSB260125DW028

Make: James Reid

Model: Knuckle Duster Spur Trigger Revolver “My Friend”, Model No. 1

Serial Number: 16700

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1860s–1880s / Antique

Caliber: .22 Rimfire

Action Type: Single Action, Spur Trigger, Solid Brass Frame Revolver with Knuckle Duster Grip

Barrel Length: No Barrel.

Sights / Optics: The top of the frame has a gutter type sight groove. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver features an integral brass frame forming a knuckle duster style grip with a single finger ring. The grip frame is scroll engraved with foliate patterns on both sides and exhibits light handling marks, scattered nicks, and age-related patina throughout. The engraving remains visible with moderate softening. The brass shows a warm, aged tone. Overall, the grip/frame rates in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel Plated Brass frame

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The chambers display mild erosion throughout. There is no rifling.

Overall Condition: The revolver retains approximately 5-10% of its original finish. Most of the plating has worn away, exposing the brass frame. The brass frame has developed an even, aged patina with handling wear and scattered marks. The cylinder shows oxidation, finish loss, and erosion with fine pitting, consistent with age. Screws show light to heavy wear but remain serviceable. Overall, this revolver rates in about Poor condition. (See Mechanics).

Mechanics: The action does not function. The hammer and trigger do not engage. The cylinder spins freely. We did not fire this revolver. 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 unconventional personal defense arms produced in the late nineteenth century. Manufactured in New York beginning in the 1860s, these revolvers combined a small rimfire handgun with an integrated brass knuckle grip, reflecting a period when compact and easily concealed weapons were in high demand. The Model No. 1 variant, chambered in .22 Rimfire, was among the earliest examples and features the characteristic solid brass frame, spur trigger, and seven shot cylinder without a traditional barrel. These revolvers were marketed as discreet protection pieces, often carried in a pocket, and their unique form has made them highly recognizable among collectors of antique American firearms.

Chambered in .22 Rimfire, one of the earliest metallic cartridge types widely adopted in the mid nineteenth century, this example retains approximately 5 to 10 percent of its original nickel plating with most surfaces now showing a smooth, aged brass patina. The cylinder exhibits oxidation and light pitting consistent with age, and the chambers show mild erosion. The engraved brass frame remains visually appealing with softened but still visible scrollwork. The action is currently non functional, with the hammer and trigger not engaging and the cylinder rotating freely. Despite its worn condition and mechanical issues, this revolver remains an authentic and historically significant example of a uniquely American defensive design from the post Civil War era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – L.S.