Help identify this pistol

[jmpgnr24k]

Well it's not a Belgian because the cylinder does not have the indents. And the barrel is not octogonal. Still looks more like a wembly. Vote?

[G-forceJunkie]

Looks like a Webley RIC or a copy of one.

http://www.collegehillarsenal.com/shop/product.php?productid=421

[Emdawg]

In all honesty, we may never know.

Everyone was copying and sharing pistol designs back then. Whether be that thing, the Nagant, or a Smith & Wesson.

[dozer99]

I agree with G-forceJunkie that it's a Webley but I'm not sure is a Model 1. It also might have had some work done like new (old) hand guards. Look at the bottom of the top strap on the op's pic and the Webley (same). Boy if this thing could talk, the stories it could tell. Good Find.

[jmpgnr24k]

With G-forces' link this gun is totally a Webley. Whether its a original or copy who knows. But it a Webley. Thanks 89 vision and G-force for solving the mystery. And to all the calgunners who responded.

[jmpgnr24k]

Man, pre 1900. To think of who owned this gun and what was done with it.

[Tom-ADC]

Looks like a Belgium version of a British Bulldog, but doesn't have the fluted cylinder.

[Mike A]

Basically, you need to remove the grip wood--VERY CAREFULLY--using penetrating oil and a thin blade if the wood is stuck to the metal with dried oil goop.

Then get some bronze wool (Ace Hardware has) and SOAK the gun in penetrating oil (I use "Kroil" but any cheaper brand will do). I mean soak as in put it in a can of oil and let it sit. Warming the gun and can SLIGHTLY will help it penetrate. Then go all over the gun with the bronze wool soaked in penetrating oil to remove as much rust and crud as possible. Take your time.

Then look for markings and see if you copy of photograph any you find. If there are any, that'll tell you where and possibly when it was made. If not, then that tells you SOMETHING about where and why it was made.

Then try to disassemble, using a closely fitting screwdrivers (grind cheap ones to fit, if you don't have a gunsmith's set). I'll look at my books to see if there is a disassembly guide to generic solid frame Webleys.

I agree that it LOOKS like a Webley RIC. But that doesn't narrow it down much because that was about the most-copied design in history.

Are there any Broad Arrow markings on it (they would be pretty obvious)? If there are, I'd guess it might be a British Adams .450 service revolver. But I don't think so.

If you can uncover ANY markings, let us know.

Dontcha just love a mystery gun????

[Silverone858]

Boy if this thing could talk, the stories it could tell. Good Find.

That's funny, I always think that when I see well used c&rs like military rifles with art engraved into the stock or an old pistol. If only they could talk!

[littlejake]

An RIC would have a loading gate -- and I'm just not seeing it. I agree with cleaning it up. It's just a paperweight in its current state.

What about soaking it in naval jelly?

[Tom-ADC]

Take the grips off be careful and soak the rest of in in white vinegar for 30 minutes, you can use a scotchbrite pad to remove the rust during the process.
Rinse in hot hot water, blow dry, repeat as required.
The BP guys use vinegar to put a antique finish on new guys. Apple cider works well.

I would use a Q-Tip and apply a generous amount of Oil of Wintergreen to the grip screws, use a good fitting screwdriver on the screws, soak 15 minutes if they don't come out easy soak again. This stuff works.

[jigenax]

[Alex$]

Naval jelly will remove everything down to bare metal, including any finish that was applied originally, not to be used.

Vinegar will also take off blueing, as will a scotchbrite.

As has been mentioned, best option for rust is penetrating oil and bronze wool. Cheap and effective, patience is key.

Also as mentioned, start with the handles.

[jmpgnr24k]

How about blasting with alum oxide?

[Mike A]

I haven't been able to find any breakdown or assembly pics of Webley SOLID FRAME revolvers, just the break action ones. Sorry. I have them for the Italian "Bodeo" 1874 and 1889, and the British Adams, but no RICs.

Some of the suggestions for cleanup are amusing, if you think turning antiques into wrecks is funny.... (Any restoration effort that includes a verb like "blasting" has to be "tongue-in-cheek." Doesn't it?????).

This gun IS in BAD shape. But why make it worse?