A few weeks back I contacted Rodney Olsen of Nebraska who is well know for producing underhammer pistols of the Ruggles patent.
I have been much enamored with this style of gun recently. These clever little pistols were originally produced in New England during the first half of the 19th century, and were among the first percussion firearms made here.
They have a very unique design which made them much less expensive to fashion than the typical side lock pistol of the period, and their reasonable cost made them a hit with the local lumberjacks and others who were in need of a firearm.
Upon going to my mailbox, I found a cardboard box inside. My pistol had arrived, and what a beauty it is:
I asked Mr. Olsen to use a maple’s wood for the handgrip and it is very pretty. I enjoy the figure muchly. I asked for a 6” barrel and it combines to make a handy pistol that still has a good sight radius. The brass blade and brass insert rear sight are crisp and very well done.
The pistol is in .38 caliber and Rod makes them himself. In fact, he makes virtually every single part of these guns himself. A true craftsman; his attentional to detail is evident.
For a handmade semi-custom gun the price was very reasonable and the entire experience was outstanding. I can’t wait to get to the range with this little dandy.
Thanks gang!
-Smokey
PS: For more information on this style of gun, check out the book Early American Underhammer Firearms by Nicholas L. Chandler.
I have been much enamored with this style of gun recently. These clever little pistols were originally produced in New England during the first half of the 19th century, and were among the first percussion firearms made here.
They have a very unique design which made them much less expensive to fashion than the typical side lock pistol of the period, and their reasonable cost made them a hit with the local lumberjacks and others who were in need of a firearm.
Upon going to my mailbox, I found a cardboard box inside. My pistol had arrived, and what a beauty it is:
I asked Mr. Olsen to use a maple’s wood for the handgrip and it is very pretty. I enjoy the figure muchly. I asked for a 6” barrel and it combines to make a handy pistol that still has a good sight radius. The brass blade and brass insert rear sight are crisp and very well done.
The pistol is in .38 caliber and Rod makes them himself. In fact, he makes virtually every single part of these guns himself. A true craftsman; his attentional to detail is evident.
For a handmade semi-custom gun the price was very reasonable and the entire experience was outstanding. I can’t wait to get to the range with this little dandy.
Thanks gang!
-Smokey
PS: For more information on this style of gun, check out the book Early American Underhammer Firearms by Nicholas L. Chandler.
