Scarce Deluxe Version of a Tranter Patent 7-Shot .32 Rimfire Revolver Retailed by J.H. Crane London with Tools in Fitted Burr Walnut Case c1865

Here on offer is fine and rare example of a deluxe version of a Tranter's Patent 7-Shot single action .32 rimfire revolver, c1865.

It has an ornately engraved brass frame and butt plate, a part engraved barrel, smooth deluxe horn or other natural material grips and a 7-shot cylinder.

It is marked ‘Tranter Patent 3915’ on the frame and ‘J. H. CRANE. Royal Exchange London’ on the top of the barrel, who were the retailers.

This very desirable obsolete calibre revolver, comes in excellent condition, with most of the original blueing remaining on the barrel and just some minor darkening to the steel fittings. All the engraving is still deep and sharp and it has the original owner’s initials, which look to be, “IHC” engraved on the brass edge of the grip.

It has a good tight action, which half cocks, full cocks and dry fires perfectly.

It comes in its original ‘Tranter’ fitted wooden case lined in blue baize, the interior of the lid with a copy of the retailer's trade label, the exterior veneered in burr walnut and with vacant circular brass escutcheon. Inside it still retains some cleaning tools/cloths and an oil bottle.

The only issues I can see relate to the case. It seems to have a triangular “lid” missing inside the case, the other two are there. It has a key, but the lock now appears to be slightly worn and the pins don’t lock fully into the lid pins, so it can be pulled open. I would also say the J.H. CRANE label inside the lid is a vintage copy as such, but looks good!

Some history about Tranter.

The Tranter .32 Rimfire Revolver is part of the broader family of firearms designed by William Tranter, a prominent British gunmaker of the 19th century. Tranter was an innovative designer and manufacturer who produced a wide range of firearms, including revolvers, rifles, and shotguns, from the mid-19th century into the early 20th century. His contributions to firearm design, particularly in revolvers, were significant during a period marked by rapid technological advancements in firearms.

William Tranter initially partnered with James Kerr to produce firearms, but eventually, he started his own business, focusing on the development and manufacture of various types of guns, including percussion and later cartridge revolvers. Tranter’s firearms were known for their quality, reliability, and innovative features, which often set them apart from other firearms of the era.

The .32 Rimfire cartridge was introduced in the 1860s, becoming popular for its relatively small size and the convenience of cartridge-based ammunition over the earlier percussion systems. The Tranter .32 Rimfire Revolver was designed to fire this specific cartridge, catering to the civilian market for personal defence as well as for police and military use.

This scarce revolver is really a beautiful display piece and makes a very good investment. I have seen the a plain version of this revolver being offered for sale by a military dealer for £2,500, twice my asking price!

The revolver measures 8” (20.4cm) long and the burr walnut case is 9.5” (24.2cm) by 5.5” (14cm) by 2.25” (5.8cm).

Including the case, it weighs 1.25Kg.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 52499