Make: Minneapolis Fire Arms Co.
Model: The Protector
Serial Number: 2360
Year of Manufacture: 1883-1892
Caliber/Gauge: .32 Extra Short Centerfire
Action Type: Double Action Only Radial Revolver
Barrel Length: 1.625"
Sights/Optics: None
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: There are checkered hard rubber discs on each side with finger grooves integral to the front of the housing and a checkered black hard rubber panel on the firing paddle. The discs and panel show even light handling wear. The right panel has a small crack at the outside edge. Originally black, the left panel has taken on a brownish color. While this may indicate replacement, it may also simply indicate long-term storage with one side facing up. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original, numbers match.
Bore Condition: The bore is partially bright and the rifling is well defined. There is mild oxidation in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7+/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 87% of its nickel finish. There is some scattered flaking and handling wear in the knurled portions of the sideplate. Most areas of finish loss show oxidation. The rest of the firearm has light wear expected from a pistol this old, notably quite clean on the interior. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this pistol rates in about Good condition as Antique (see Mechanics).
Mechanics: The timing is off, resulting in the firing pin falling between chambers. Otherwise, the action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is a scarce and visually striking example of one of the most unconventional personal defense pistols of the late nineteenth century. The distinctive palm operated design places the firing mechanism within a compact, rounded housing intended to be concealed in the hand, with discharge occurring when the spring loaded ring is pressed inward. Originally designed by Jacques Turbiaux in France, the pistol would be later be produced by the Minneapolis Fire Arms Co. in America starting in 1883. This firm would make about 3,000 guns before the patent was purchased purchased by Peter Finnegan in 1892 and produced as "The Protector" by the Chicago Fire Arms Co. Finnegan hoped to have many produced under his company's name in time for the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. While a comparatively small number was produced in time for the Fair, the firm would go on to sell quite a bit more than the original Minneapolis Fire Arms Co.
This example has survived the years well, retaining serial-matching parts, the majority of its original nickel finish, and a decent bore. The timing is off, resulting in the firing pin falling between chambers, but it will still make a wonderful display in a collection of pocket pistols or firearms with odd mechanisms. "The Protector" palm pistol represents a unique chapter in late Victorian era firearms design, when inventors experimented with unconventional ergonomics to meet the demand for discreet self defense weapons. These pistols were marketed toward civilians seeking a concealable alternative to traditional pocket revolvers and are now recognized as iconic curios of nineteenth century ingenuity. Surviving examples with high original finish are increasingly difficult to find. Please see our photos and good luck!
