Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistol, .31 Rocket Ball, 3.5 in Octagonal Barrel, Engraved Bright-Plated Frame (c. 1857–1860)
This Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistol is a micro-size, lever-action ring-trigger pistol chambered in .31 Rocket Ball and produced circa 1857–1860. It features a 3.5-inch octagonal steel barrel, a bright-plated engraved frame, and the classic Volcanic open-top feedway with under-barrel magazine. Based on research, it is believed to be authentic; however, authenticity cannot be confirmed and a reproduction cannot be ruled out.
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: There are markings and chips on the finish from previous handling and use. It appears to have been refinished. The bore is bright and clean. See photos for reference.
What’s Included
- Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistol (.31 Rocket Ball)
The pistol bears the barrel-top legend "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14, 1854" and aligns with New Haven Arms Co. production from New Haven, Connecticut. It has the hallmark Volcanic open-top feedway and under-barrel tubular magazine with longitudinal slot and follower tab, loaded via a hinged muzzle cap.
The frame is bright plated and extensively engraved with scroll and foliate motifs across the receiver/frame sides, top strap, and at the barrel breech. It is fitted with fixed iron sights (front blade and rear notch), an exposed spur hammer, and a butt with a central metal strap. Smooth two-piece walnut grips with a circular escutcheon complete the pocket-format profile.
This example is chambered in .31 Rocket Ball with a 3.5-inch octagonal steel barrel and a 6+1 capacity. The lever-action ring trigger is the signature Volcanic operating control, combining the feed and firing cycle in a compact micro-size package intended for pocket carry of the era.
Production for the .31-caliber pocket pistols is commonly cited at around 850 units. This pistol is serial number 568, with matching numbers stamped on the inside of the wood grips. Based on research, it is believed to be authentic; however, authenticity cannot be confirmed and a reproduction cannot be ruled out.