Antique Belgian “FRONTIER DEFENDER” Revolver 44 C.F.W (44-40)

Serial or Assembly #1, .44 C.F.W. (.44-40), 5 inch barrel with a very fine bore with strong rifling.  Marked on the top strap “Frontier Defender” this Belgian proofed double-action revolver bears the early Liege black powder pre 1892 proof.  These were well made, low cost copies of British and European guns sold in hardware stores across the American West to provide affordable alternatives to Colts, Smith & Wesson's, Webley's and Tranters.  In excellent condition this example retains about 85-90% of the original nickel plating with some tiny spots of flaking most noticeable on the cylinder.  The hard wood grips have the checkering worn smooth.  The cylinder shell loading latch looks to be a period alteration having a Colt 1878 one well fitted in place.  It functions well mechanically holding at half and full cock with proper cylinder timing.  A great looking Antique revolver with a fantastic name that remains in excellent condition.  Antique