Make: Whitney Firearms, Inc.
Model: Wolverine
Serial Number: 31119
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1956-1957
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Direct Blowback, Semi-Automatic, fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked "WHITNEY". The right side of the receiver is marked "WHITNEY FIREARMS INC., NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.". The front of the grip frame is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 4.75"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to the receiver. The rear sight is a square notch mounted to the barrel receiver.
Stock/Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are a two-piece checkered polymer grip set, with a faux ivory finish. The grips show light wear, with scattered scratches and minor dings. The checkering is generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Anodized Black/Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear and edge-thinning with light nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The markings are clear. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this pistol rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with its original owner's manual/paperwork, and a single 10-round magazine.
Our Assessment: The Whitney Wolverine remains one of the most visually distinctive American rimfire pistols of the 1950s. Produced briefly from 1956 to 1957 in New Haven, Connecticut, the Wolverine embodied the futuristic styling cues of the postwar era, with its sleek aluminum frame, flowing barrel shroud, and lightweight construction. It stood apart from traditional rimfire automatics of the time, offering modern lines and a unique silhouette that has since made it a recognizable collector piece. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, it reflects the mid-century enthusiasm for affordable target shooting and recreational rimfire use.
This example retains approximately 90 percent of its original anodized blue finish, showing signs of responsible use over the last 68+ years. The faux ivory polymer grips remain in Very Good condition with well-defined checkering and solid fit. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9.5 out of 10. Mechanically sound and accompanied by its original manual and factory magazine, this Wolverine presents as a strong representative of one of the most innovative American pistol designs of its era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
