Early Manhattan 31 Cal BP Pepperbox Double Action Bar Hammer 6 Shot 4 Inch Barrels

Serial #NSN, .31 Caliber black powder percussion, 4 inch barrels (6 shots) all with fine dark bores.  This is an early six shot, double action, bar hammer Pepperbox manufactured by the Manhattan Firearms Manufacturing Company with production in Norwich, CT but marked as New York and total production of the various types estimated at under 3000.  Among the earliest of guns produced by them these double action pistols were built from 1856 into the late 1850's. with production in Norwich, CT but marked as New York.  This example is marked on the barrel flats “CAST STEEL”, and “MANHATTAN F.A. MFG. CO./NEW YORK”.  In very good to fine overall condition the metal surfaces are mostly a mottled blue gray with areas of surface roughness.  The frame has the standard engraving with good marking on the barrels.  The grips are solid with old contusions and use marks.  The bar hammer double action functions with the gun pointed slightly down to advance the barrels with a good trigger pull.  The trigger guard is slightly loose.  A good looking example of these somewhat scarce Manhattan Pepperbox pistols, many of which found their way onto Civil War battlefield and saddle bags of Western travelers.  Antique