Vintage Whitney Wolverine 22 LR 4.5″ Semi-Auto Pistol C&R w/ Box & Mag
SOLD FOR: $2,725
WOA#: WY231220JD001
Make: Whitney Firearms Inc.
Model: Whitney Wolverine
Serial Number: 24236
Year of Manufacture: 1956-1957
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The right side of the barrel extension is marked “WOLVERINE / WHITNEY FIREARMS INC., NEW HAVEN, CONN., U.S.A.”. The left side of the barrel extension is marked “WHITNEY”. The front strap is marked “24236”.
Barrel Length: 4 ?”
Sights / Optics: This pistol has front blade and rear notch sights.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered hard brown plastic. The checkering is crisp and the peaks are sharp with only lightly worn peaks near the top portions. There are no chips or cracks. There are some minor scuffs. Overall the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some minor corrosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 90% of its original finish, there is visible handling wear and minor scratches. The markings are crisp. There are small compression lines throughout the enamel as well as a few small nicks on the right side. There is thinning on the leading edges especially around the muzzle. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with its magazine, serialized factory box, owner’s manual, and warranty card.
Our Assessment: Han Solo would be jealous of this space-age pistol. Coming to us from the atomic era of the 1950s, the Whitney Wolverine was billed under the phrase “more modern than tomorrow”. The Whitney Wolverine, and its peer the Whitney Lightning, were intended to capitalize on the fame of Eli Whitney and New Haven, Connecticut’s rich firearm manufacturing history, but low sales numbers cut this firearm’s production life short. Too many competitors rather than poor quality meant this firearm stays firmly in the space-age. Still, this streamlined semi-automatic pistol did earn a reputation for excellent point shooting and will make a valuable collector’s piece for the most discerning of collectors. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
