The gun that wanted to get sued: the German Colt copy with firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson.

Published on September 11, 2024
Duration: 18:13

This video examines a German-made Clet & Grim revolver, a Continental European interpretation of Colt's iconic designs, likely based on the Colt Navy and Army models. The firearm features distinctive stylistic elements, including a unique grip, spurred trigger guard, and extensive foliate engraving with a central family crest. The presenter, firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson, discusses its construction, potential historical context, and the intriguing question of whether Clet & Grim faced patent infringement issues with Colt.

Quick Summary

The Clet & Grim revolver is a German percussion firearm from Suhl, circa 1855, that serves as a Continental European interpretation of Colt's designs, like the Navy and Army models. It features a distinctively chunkier frame, unique grip, and extensive foliate engraving, including a family crest and a figural relief. The makers, Clet & Grim, were associated with Suhl's long tradition of gunmaking.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to the Clet & Grim Revolver
  2. 00:40Comparison with Colt Navy Model
  3. 01:28Octagonal Barrel and Frame Design
  4. 02:00Ramrod Differences
  5. 02:17Ramrod Functionality
  6. 03:01Importance of Ramming Charges
  7. 03:34Frame Construction Differences
  8. 04:16Engraved Iron Block Construction
  9. 05:03Two-Piece Frame Design
  10. 06:05Spurred Trigger Guard Design
  11. 06:29Continental European Grip Style
  12. 07:09Engraving and Family Crest
  13. 08:30Figural Relief Decoration
  14. 09:07Gold Inlaid Maker's Mark
  15. 09:30Clet & Grim: German Maker in Suhl
  16. 10:00Who were Clet & Grim?
  17. 10:12The Clet Family Gunmakers
  18. 10:33Dating the Revolver (c. 1855)
  19. 11:19The Grim Partnership
  20. 12:12Lack of Proof Marks
  21. 12:19A Cool Vintage Firearm
  22. 12:34Inspiration for Video Games
  23. 13:07Handling and Ergonomics
  24. 13:39Hammer Spur and Cocking
  25. 14:15Mainspring Strength
  26. 15:00Did Clet & Grim Get Sued by Colt?
  27. 15:32Patent Infringement Question
  28. 16:02Copies vs. Originals
  29. 16:34Inclusion in Colt Firearms Books
  30. 16:52Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Clet & Grim revolver and how does it relate to Colt firearms?

The Clet & Grim revolver is a German-made firearm from Suhl, dating around 1855, which is a Continental European interpretation of Colt's iconic percussion revolvers, particularly the Navy and Army models. It shares design elements like the octagonal barrel but features unique construction, grip, and extensive decorative engraving.

What are the key differences between the Clet & Grim revolver and a Colt Navy pistol?

While inspired by the Colt Navy, the Clet & Grim is typically chambered in .44 caliber (compared to the Navy's .36), is substantially chunkier, and features a different frame construction with a two-piece main frame and a separate trigger guard and front strap. It also has a distinctively curved ramrod and a more stylized grip.

Who were Clet & Grim, the makers of this German revolver?

Clet & Grim were gunmakers based in Suhl, Germany. The Clet family has a long history of gunmaking in the area, with Stefan Clet recorded working in the mid-19th century. The 'Grim' part of the partnership is less clear, but a 'SE Grim' was listed as a 'gavier hler' in an 1824 directory, suggesting a connection to the gun trade.

Does the Clet & Grim revolver feature any unique decorative elements?

Yes, the Clet & Grim revolver is heavily decorated with foliate engraving. It prominently features a central family crest, a figural relief of a woman in a dress and hat, and a dramatically squared trigger guard with a large spur. The maker's name is inlaid in gold on the barrel.

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