Make: Blunt & Syms Style

Model: Underhammer Pepperbox

Serial Number: NVSN

Year of Manufacture: 1840s-1850s

Caliber: .36 Caliber Ball & Percussion

Action Type: Double Action Revolving Cylinder.

Markings: The grip frame and trigger housing of the revolver are decorated with a hand-engraved floral pattern. The filigree has faded some throughout the years but is still highly visible and enjoyable.

Barrel Length: 5.5”

Sights / Optics: There are no sights on this model.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth hardwood on a round-butt grip frame. There are some light compressions from use and storage, and the grips are shy from smoothing and age. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in about very good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Originally blue now patinaed.

Finish Originality: Not refinished. 

Bore Condition: The bores are dark and smooth. There is minimal scattered corrosion. The bores rat in 7/10 in this writer’s opinion.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 0% of its metal finish. There are signs of oxidation that have eroded throughout. There are some nicks and dings. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong, serviceable slots. The hammer-shield is still intact. Some of the nipples have been mutilated and others are in fine condition. The markings are still viable. Overall, this handgun rates in about very good condition.

Mechanics: The action works correctly. The cylinder rotates into place. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: none

Our Assessment: Here we present an antique Blunt & Syms Style Percussion Underhammer Pepperbox Revolver, made circa the 1840s to 1850s. Ethan Allen was a contemporary who was also in the business of making firearms, especially pepperboxes, but with a different design. Blunt & Syms pepperboxes feature a ring trigger and a hammer on the bottom of the firearm instead of on top, making it a bit more streamlined. The hammer also has a small shield mounted on it to protect the user’s hand from the small detonation of the percussion cap.

Pepperbox revolvers were so named because of the similarity of the front view of the weapon was so reminiscent of a Pepper Pot of the time being a circle of round holes. The overall condition leaves a 0% finish but is still very good. Original patina. Strong action. The bores are in good shape. Solid grips. Nicely engraved frame. A handsome and scarce American pepperbox revolver!