Alsop Navy Revolver, Compared to its Pocket Model Companion

Published on August 28, 2018
Duration: 5:46

This expert-level knowledge entry details the Alsop Navy and Pocket revolvers, drawing from Ian McCollum's analysis on Forgotten Weapons. It covers their historical context, production details, and subtle distinguishing features. The entry highlights the Alsop family's involvement in firearms development and the commercial challenges faced by their own revolver designs, offering insights valuable to collectors and historians of Civil War-era firearms.

Quick Summary

The Alsop Navy and Pocket revolvers, produced from 1862-1863, are distinguished by caliber and grip frame shape. The Navy is .36 caliber with a pointed backstrap, while the Pocket is .31 caliber with a stepped backstrap. Both are 5-shot percussion revolvers, though Alsop offered custom barrel lengths.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to Alsop Revolvers
  2. 00:29Alsop Family and Company History
  3. 01:07Production Numbers and Calibers
  4. 01:40Company's Commercial Failure
  5. 01:55Navy vs. Pocket Model Similarities
  6. 02:42Barrel Length Variations
  7. 03:08Key Distinguishing Feature: Grip Frame
  8. 03:41Caliber as Definitive Identifier
  9. 03:51Front Sight Style
  10. 04:07Rear Sight Design
  11. 04:27Markings and Patent Dates
  12. 05:10Conclusion and Further Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Alsop Navy and Pocket revolvers?

While visually similar, the Alsop Navy revolver is .36 caliber and typically has a 5.5-inch barrel, whereas the Pocket model is .31 caliber with a 4-inch barrel. The most distinct physical difference is the backstrap of the grip frame; the Navy has a pronounced point, and the Pocket has a simple step-in.

What was the production history of Alsop revolvers?

Alsop revolvers were produced for a short period between 1862 and 1863. The company manufactured approximately 800 units in total, split between around 500 Navy models and 300 Pocket models, before ceasing production.

Why did Alsop revolvers fail commercially?

Alsop revolvers faced commercial failure primarily because they did not secure a military contract and were priced too high for the civilian market. This led to the cessation of production by 1863 as the company pursued other ventures.

How can one definitively identify an Alsop Navy versus a Pocket revolver?

The most reliable method for definitive identification is by caliber: the Alsop Navy revolver is always .36 caliber, and the Pocket model is always .31 caliber. Visually, the backstrap of the grip frame offers a key distinguishing feature.

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