Lucius W. Pond Belt Single Action 32 RF Revolver - Collectible *Smith & Wesson Patent*

This is a vintage Lucius W. Pond Belt Single Action Revolver chambered in 32 Rimfire. It features a 4-inch barrel, top folding action, spur trigger, all matching numbers, and wood grips. Overall, this revolver is in good shape for its age. The finish has faded into a white color patina, the bore is in good condition with strong rifling. The lanyard loop is missing. The barrel features several lines of text including; "Lucius W. Pond Worcester Mass Pat'd July 10th 1860" and "Manuf'd for Smith & Wesson Pat'd April 5, 1855". This would make a great choice for collectors. Buy online today.

Serial Number: 5053

Abridged History
Lucius W. Pond began making the Belt Revolver in around 1861, at a time when America was fighting itself in the American Civil War. For a year or so, Pond was able to produce a number of Belt Revolvers, in partial accordance with a patent issued to Abram Gibson on the 10th July 1860. In 1862, however, Smith & Wesson made a challenge to the Belt Revolver's production. Smith & Wesson's challenge centered on a patent issued for their 'Rollin White' patent, issued in 1855. The court ruled in favor of Smith & Wesson, however Pond (alongside Bacon, Moore and Warner whom were also found infringing that patent) was able to continue producing the Belt Revolver, on the grounds that each one was marked "Manuf'd for Smith & Wesson Pat'd April 5, 1855" (as well as a payment of royalties to Smith & Wesson). However, Pond continued production of the Belt Revolver, under the clause of the contract which stated that the Belt Revolver remained 'in the course of production'. The final run of 4,486 Belt Revolvers were marked as the court demanded, with production ending in 1870.