IVER JOHNSON ARMS Wild West “DEFENDER 89” Spur Trigger .32 RF Revolver C&R WILD WEST “SUICIDE SPECIAL” Hideout Revolver

Product Description

IVER JOHNSON ARMS Wild West “DEFENDER 89” Spur Trigger .32 RF Revolver C&R

WILD WEST “SUICIDE SPECIAL” Hideout Revolver

Here we present a C&R Iver Johnson “DEFENDER 89” .32 Rimfire Spur Trigger Pocket Revolver, made circa 1889-1899 in Worcester, Massachusetts. These little spur triggers were made under contract for J.P. Lovell Arms Co. of Boston, Massachusetts. These pocket-sized revolvers and many like them were made by various companies such that the price easily undercut better known and established companies like Colt. As a result, many of Colt’s similar lines were shut down for their inability to compete. During a time when many, if not most people carried a firearm, these affordable little revolves were small enough to conceal and carry yet provide some level of protection or peace of mind, even when the town did not allow firearms within its limits.

It was not until 1948 that the term “Suicide Special” was coined and proliferated by Duncan McConnel in his article for the NRA’s American Rifleman. 10 years later in 1958 Donald Blake Webster published his book about them, Suicide Specials. There were quite literally dozens of companies making these at the end of the 19^th century, curiously being “trade named” all sorts of things, for example: Defender, Blue Jacket, Red Jacket, Electric, Smoker and many more! They are typically rimfire and have the spur trigger, much like their progenitor the S&W No. 1 Revolver. Though they do not have the name recognition of Colt’s, Smith & Wesson and Remington, they still represent a period in American history and present an opportunity for collectors with relatively minimal investment.

The overall condition is fine. Original nickel finish. The action is strong all the way around. The bore is good, has darkened, and maintains serviceable rifling. Both grips are very good with less than average wear. Markings are sharp.

Own the original! This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic.

Barrel is 2-1/2 inches.

Caliber: .32 Rimfire

Overall condition as seen in photos.

Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING. Will need to be sent to your local FFL or C&R licensee. This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic.

Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.

www.ancestryguns.com

$900
#251015