Chicago Fire Arms Co. The Protector .32 Rimfire Palm Pistol, Factory-Engraved Nickel, 7-Shot, 1 3/4 Inch Barrel
This antique, micro-size Chicago Fire Arms Co. The Protector palm pistol stands out for its unique squeeze-fire design, factory ornamental engraving, and nickel-plated steel construction. Built in the 1890s and chambered in .32 Rimfire with a seven-shot radial cylinder, it combines distinctive engineering with period craftsmanship. It comes with a fitted presentation case for display.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape overall. Minor superficial scratches and blemishes are present on the exterior.
What’s Included
- Hinged wooden fitted display/presentation case
Designed as a true palm pistol, The Protector uses a double-action-only squeeze-fire lever to cycle and fire a seven-shot radial/turret cylinder oriented perpendicular to the bore. The compact form factor and 1 3/4 inch barrel make it a distinctive late-19th-century defensive arm.
Production is attributed to Ames Sword Co. in the 1890s for Chicago Fire Arms Co., and the circular sideplate bears the legend "CHICAGO FIRE ARMS CO. CHICAGO, ILL." The removable rotating sideplate allows loading and unloading while retaining the pistol's compact profile.
Construction is nickel-plated steel with a stepped steel barrel and an etched band at the barrel base. The pistol has no sights, as typical for the pattern. Hard-rubber circular grip inserts with fine checkering and a central medallion, plus a checkered rear palm pad, provide purchase during squeeze-fire operation.
This example is factory-engraved with ornamental border motifs. One side shows a leaf/scroll border, while the other features a cross-hatch/checkered band, complemented by the etched barrel band. The nickel finish pairs cleanly with the engraved accents for a cohesive period look.
Additional tactile features include a checkered hard-rubber trigger pad on the squeeze-fire lever. Chambered in .32 Rimfire with a 7-round capacity, it reflects an inventive American design approach from the era.