KNIL Model 91 Revolver (Commercial)

KNIL Model 91 Revolver (Commercial Variation with barrel) in Dutch Revolver Calibre (Not for sale to UK residents)

Manufactured commercially by JFJ Bar this gun bears the makers name and also is marked (in an oval). Dutch East Indies officers were required to buy their own sidearms and this marking appeared from 1887 onwards on those guns subsequently inspected at the Dutch Small Arms Arsenal.
Guns with this marking are very rare indeed, and this gun stands out from the standard model for a number of reasons.
First it is the only example I have ever seen with a non-standard length barrel. The extra length makes the gun feel lighter than the shorter barrelled model. In fact so much does it affect the balance that I had to weigh both models before I was convinced that the longer model was in fact heavier, having thought initially that perhaps a finer grade of steel had been used.
Second it incorporates the Abadie modification, enabling the movement of the cylinder (for reloading) by successive trigger pulls when the loading gate is open (and it works beautifully). This mechanism prevents discharge when the loading gate is open.
Third it retains 95 of its original finish, its original (serial number stamped) grips are very good, and the usual dot markings on the screws (one dot on the front screw, two dots on the rear) have been replaced by the digits 1 and 2, which are also stamped on the frame.
It is peronalised with its owners name engraved on the topstrap, J A J Vermaat Jr (pictured above in uniform) and has by far the best grips Ive ever seen on a KNIL model..
There are a number of other differences of note including: the recess for the head of the opened loading gate having been dispensed with.
The gun has an excellent bore with strong rifling and clearly has been well cared for.
Although this calibre is regarded as obsolete in the UK, this gun is NOT available to UK residents.
European buyers are responsible for ensuring this gun may be legally purchased in their country.
Barrel length 16,5cm Overall length 27cm

Region: West Europe
Category: pistols