Confederate Revolvers: Leech, Rigdon, & Ansley

Published on September 17, 2015
Duration: 13:00

This guide details how to identify Leech & Rigdon and Rigdon & Ansley Confederate revolvers, focusing on key markings and manufacturing variations. Expert Ian McCollum highlights the importance of examining barrel stamps, serial number details (like the 'broken 1' stamp), and state property marks. Understanding these nuances is crucial for collectors due to the prevalence of historical fakes.

Quick Summary

Authenticating Leech & Rigdon and Rigdon & Ansley Confederate revolvers involves scrutinizing barrel markings ('LEECH & RIGDON CSA', 'RIGDON & ANSLEY CSA', 'AUGUSTA GA CSA'), serial number details (like the 'broken 1' stamp around serial 1200), and state property stamps ('SC'). Rigdon & Ansley models often feature improved 12 cylinder stops.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Confederate Revolvers
  2. 00:31Authenticity and Fakes
  3. 01:18Leech & Rigdon Partnership
  4. 02:00Design and Caliber
  5. 02:53Factory Relocations
  6. 03:51Rigdon & Ansley Transition
  7. 04:32Technical Improvements
  8. 05:50Model Comparison
  9. 07:18Markings and Serial Numbers
  10. 08:37Safety Features and Inspection Marks
  11. 09:35Augusta Markings and State Property
  12. 10:44Late Production and Rare Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify an original Leech & Rigdon or Rigdon & Ansley Confederate revolver?

Authenticity relies on examining specific markings: 'LEECH & RIGDON CSA' or 'RIGDON & ANSLEY CSA', location stamps like 'AUGUSTA GA CSA', and unique serial number details such as the 'broken 1' stamp. Also, look for 'SC' property stamps and check for 6 vs. 12 cylinder stops.

What were the main differences between Leech & Rigdon and Rigdon & Ansley revolvers?

Leech & Rigdon revolvers were earlier production. Rigdon & Ansley, formed after Leech left, continued production with tooling from the original contract and incorporated a patent for 12 cylinder stops, offering improved safety over the standard 6 stops.

Why is firearm authentication crucial for Confederate revolvers?

Confederate revolvers have been counterfeited since the 19th century. Some fakes are so old they have developed an authentic patina, making expert examination of specific manufacturing details, markings, and construction methods essential for collectors.

What caliber and capacity were typical for Leech & Rigdon and Rigdon & Ansley revolvers?

These Confederate revolvers were generally .36 caliber and had a capacity of 6 rounds. They were manufactured as copies of the popular Colt 1851 Navy model.

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