Iver Johnson American Bulldog .32 Double Action Revolver Antique
SOLD FOR: $805
WOA#: WY231027LM035
Make: Iver Johnson
Model: American Bulldog
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1884-1885 (Name marked on top of barrel with Eagle Grips)
Caliber: .32
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Cylinder, Pull-Pin
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “AMERICAN BULL DOG”.
Barrel Length: 2 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are checkered black hard rubber with Eagle designs. The grips have moderate handling wear. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. Overall, the grips rate in Good condition as Antique. There is some dirt build up in the right grip.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is dull where not interrupted by erosion. There is heavy erosion and pitting in the bore throughout.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 35% of its metal finish. There is some finish loss at edges and scattered spots of surface oxidation through the finish. Some areas have a cloudy appearance, but most remain fairly shiny. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The markings are legible and crisp. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. There is some heavy corrosion on the bottom of the trigger guard as well as a few spots around the frame and cylinder. Overall, this revolver is in Fair-Good condition, as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Iver Johnson American Bull Dog .32 Revolver is a significant piece of late 19th and early 20th-century American firearms history. Manufactured by Iver Johnson, a company known for producing affordable, reliable firearms for the average citizen, the American Bull Dog was a popular pocket revolver during its time.
Introduced in the late 1800s, the American Bull Dog revolver was a compact, double-action revolver chambered in .32 caliber. This caliber was a common choice for self-defense firearms of the era, offering a balance between stopping power and manageable recoil, especially important for a small, easily concealable handgun designed for personal protection.
One of the key features of the American Bull Dog was its solid frame design, which provided a sturdy and durable structure for the revolver. The design typically featured a 2.5-inch barrel, making it compact enough to be carried discreetly, a critical attribute for a personal defense weapon during that period. The revolver also had a five-shot cylinder, which was standard for small revolvers of the era.
In terms of aesthetics, the American Bull Dog often had a nickel finish, which was popular in the late 19th century, and featured hard rubber grips. The overall design of the revolver was utilitarian, focusing on functionality and affordability rather than ornate detailing.
The Iver Johnson American Bull Dog .32 revolver holds a place in the history of American firearms as a representation of the era’s pocket revolvers. Its affordability and practical design made it accessible to a wide range of individuals, contributing to its popularity. Today, these revolvers are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their historical value and as a window into the personal defense firearms of the late 19th century. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
