Chicago Firearms Co. Palm Protector 32 Extra Short Rare Palm Pistol Antique
SOLDO FOR: $2,895.00
LSB#: WY250205RC105
Make: Chicago Firearms Co.
Model: Palm Protector
Serial Number: 2616
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1890s – Early 1900s (Antique)
Caliber: .32 Extra Short Rimfire
Action Type: Turret-Firing, Squeeze Fire Revolving Cylinder
Barrel Length: Approximately 1.5” (Concealed in Frame, Typical for Palm Pistols)
Sights / Optics: The pistol was designed without traditional sights, as it was intended for point-and-shoot self-defense at extremely close range.
Markings: The left side of the pistol is marked “CHICAGO FIRE ARMS CO. CHICAGO, ILL.” The right side is marked “THE PROTECTOR PAT. MCH. 6.83. AUG. 29.93,” indicating the key patent dates for this design. When the sideplate is removed, both the turret and sideplate bear matching serial number “2616,” confirming this as an original, factory-matching example.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with hard rubber grip panels and a squeezer, which remain in very good condition, showing minimal handling wear. The floral-engraved border is sharp and easily visible, making this one of the better-preserved examples of this model.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with worn rifling, showing light wear but remaining in overall solid condition. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10, ensuring that this firearm remains a mechanically sound example.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains 95%+ of its original nickel finish, showing strong plating with minimal wear. The knurling around the barrel shows some blurring, but the knurling on the left side plate remains sharp. The engraved details are well-preserved and easily enjoyable, contributing to the visual appeal of this piece.
Mechanics: The action is strong and crisp, with the squeeze fire mechanism operating smoothly. The turret and internals function properly, and the overall mechanical condition is well-preserved for an antique firearm. We did not fire this pistol. As with all antique firearms, a thorough inspection is recommended before any potential use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Chicago Firearms Co. Palm Protector is one of the most innovative and visually distinct firearms of the late 19th century, designed as a compact and discreet self-defense weapon. With its turret-firing mechanism and palm squeeze trigger, this pistol provided a rapid-fire alternative to traditional revolvers, making it one of the more unique cartridge-firing pocket pistols of its era.
This particular example, serial number 2616, is an early production model, featuring matching serial numbers on both the turret and sideplate, verifying its originality. The nickel finish is exceptionally well-preserved at 95%+, with only minor signs of wear, and the engraved floral details remain crisp and highly visible. The action functions smoothly, and the hard rubber grips remain in very good condition.
For antique firearm collectors, enthusiasts of unique historical weapons, or those fascinated by 19th-century concealed carry innovations, this Chicago Firearms Co. Palm Protector is an outstanding example. Whether displayed as a centerpiece in a collection, preserved as a historical artifact, or admired for its mechanical ingenuity, this pistol remains a remarkable relic of American firearms history. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
