Chicago Fire Arms Co. 'The Protector' .32 Rimfire Palm Pistol, Factory Engraved Nickel, DAO Squeeze-Fire, 7-Shot, Antique
This Chicago Fire Arms Co. 'The Protector' palm pistol is a micro-size, 7-shot, double-action-only squeeze-fire design from the 1890s. It features factory floral and leaf engraving over a nickel finish, mother-of-pearl sideplates, and a compact 1.75 inch barrel. The unique radial 'turret' drum with its axis perpendicular to the bore, twist-off sideplate loading, clear maker and patent markings, and matching serials on internal components make this an especially notable antique example.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore 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 small blemishes are present on the surfaces.
What's Included
- Fitted wooden display case with hinged lid
The Protector uses a 7-shot radial 'turret' drum with the cylinder axis set perpendicular to the bore, paired with a double-action-only squeeze-fire trigger. It is chambered for the .32 Rimfire Extra Short (.32 Protector) cartridge and has a 1.75 inch barrel. The micro form factor and no-sight configuration define its compact, palm-pistol layout.
Factory embellishment includes perimeter floral and leaf border engraving with light cross-hatching, plus an engraved floral band at the base of the barrel. The pistol wears a nickel finish, mother-of-pearl sideplates, and a checkered hard-rubber palm pad and spur.
Loading and unloading are accomplished via a twist-off sideplate. The pistol is marked 'THE PROTECTOR ... PAT. AUG. 29, 93' and 'CHICAGO FIRE ARMS CO., CHICAGO, ILL.' It retains matching serial numbers on the drum and inside the sideplate.
Manufactured in the United States in the 1890s, approximately 12,800 were produced, with manufacture associated with the Ames Sword Company. As an antique, factory-engraved example, this model presents a distinctive design and period craftsmanship.