First Model Remington Beals M1857 Revolver - .31 Cal

Description

8/20/25 - This is a scarce example of the First Model Remington-Beals revolver, introduced in 1857 as one of Remington’s earliest percussion handguns. Designed by Fordyce Beals, it marked Remington’s entry into the revolver market prior to the better-known New Model Army series. Chambered in .31 caliber percussion, the First Model features a distinctive solid-frame design with a topstrap, an innovation that gave Remington revolvers superior strength compared to the open-top Colts of the era. Production was very limited, with only a few thousand made between 1857 and 1859, making this an especially desirable early Remington. Collectors prize these revolvers for their historical importance, as they represent the very beginning of Remington’s percussion revolver production and laid the groundwork for the famous Civil War–era models that followed. This one is in fair condition overall with honest attic patina throughout and some areas of tiny pitting here and there, most noticeable on the back strap. Fitted with reddish-brown hard rubber grips - hairline crack on the left side. The bore has decent rifling, but there is minor pitting throughout. Does not appear to function properly.