Allen & Thurber Worcester Pepperbox .32 Percussion Revolver, Six-Barrel Fluted Cluster, Factory Engraved, 4-Inch, Antique
This Allen & Thurber Worcester-series pepperbox is an American-made .32 caliber percussion revolver from the Worcester production era (circa 1847–mid-1860s). It features a six-barrel fluted cluster of approximately 4 inches, a bar-style top hammer, and factory scroll engraving. The one-piece walnut bird's-head grip with a metal backstrap, along with a partial Worcester barrel-rib legend, adds period-correct details for collectors seeking a documented Worcester-marked example.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
This firearm does not fire and requires a new spring for the percussion arm. It shows heavy signs of age and wear throughout. Scratches, marks, and general wear are visible on the metal and wood. Overall, it needs gunsmithing to restore functional condition. It is a heavily aged example currently not in shooting shape.
What’s Included
- Allen & Thurber Worcester Pepperbox revolver (.32 caliber)
Built during the Worcester production era, this Allen & Thurber pepperbox represents a classic mid-19th-century American percussion design. It is identified by a partial barrel-rib legend with the characters "...WORC...ER" visible, supporting its Worcester marking and production context.
The revolver uses a six-barrel fluted cluster measuring approximately 4 inches, secured by a central axial screw at the muzzle. It is a standard-size 6-shot configuration with percussion ignition and a bar-style top hammer, and it was manufactured without conventional sights.
Factory scroll engraving appears on the frame and grip strap, adding period embellishment that aligns with known Worcester-era production. The frame and receiver are steel, and the grip is a one-piece walnut bird's-head profile with a metal backstrap, giving it the recognizable Allen Worcester profile and handling characteristics.