Merwin & Hulbert manufactured both single-action and double-action revolvers in three frame sizes - the Frontier/Pocket Army, the Pocket, and the Small Pocket. Note the 'family resemblance' in the posted image. The more prolific models all shared the same extraction system and breakdown system. Broadsword Group, the purchaser of Sharps Rifle Company, announced on their website their commitment to return deposits of those who pre-ordered and the discontinuation of any further involvement in the production of Merwin Hulbert revolvers although, they did indicate they are seeking to sell the design to a company that already specializes in reproduction firearms.įamily of revolver models - Small Pocket, Pocket & Frontier Potential buyers were encouraged to send in deposits however, none of those potential buyers ever received a firearm.
In 2012, the revived Merwin Hulbert company was bought by Sharps Rifle Company, Inc. Blank plans to reintroduce the revolvers made on modern machinery with modern materials. In 2010, it was announced that the name of the company had been purchased, as well as all of the designs and patents, by gun maker Michael Blank. The combination of extraction and barrel removal required very precise manufacturing tolerances-incredible considering the tools of the day.Īccording to Arthur Corbin Gould, Merwin Hulbert revolvers were considered to be the strongest revolvers made during the late 19th century. This not only facilitated cleaning, but allowed the owner to swap barrels, allowing for a shorter 'concealed carry' and longer 'field' weapon in one. Note: early models also required pushing out a barrel wedge similar in function to Colt percussion revolvers. In addition to this unique case extraction system, pressing an additional lever control when the frame was 'open' for extraction allowed the owner to completely remove the barrel. The tight machining tolerances would create a vacuum when the barrel and cylinder were pulled forward, literally causing the assembly to 'snap back' closed when released. Any intact cartridge would remain in the chamber due to the additional length of the bullet. During the twisting motion, the empty case could be extracted. Because nickel-plated Merwin and Hulbert pistols had the same cost as those without, it is rare to find Merwin and Hulbert revolvers with a blued finish.Ī key innovation was a rotating barrel design which allowed the user to rotate the barrel 90 degrees in order to pull the barrel and cylinder forward to remove the fired cartridge cases. The nickel acted to protect the metal surfaces from corrosion. The company developed a nickel plating process superior to their competitors, which was even less expensive than providing bluing. 32 caliber single shots, until 1916 when it went bankrupt and was bought the following year by Marlin Firearms. Hopkins & Allen continued to manufacture Merwin Hulbert style rifles, primarily. Hulbert Brothers declared bankruptcy in 1894 and in 1896 it was liquidated. Īfter Merwin's death in 1888, the company became known as "Hulbert Brothers & Company". During 1880–1881, Merwin and Hulbert was in receivership, but it was able to recover. A company associate stole the firm's operating capital and disappeared.
The bankruptcy of subsidiary Evans Rifle Company cost Merwin and Hulbert $100,000. Payment for three sizable shipments to Russia were never realized.
The company made numerous innovative designs such as folding hammers on their revolvers for pocket carry and a unique takedown system but was plagued by financial missteps. Author Art Phelps opined that if Merwin and Hulbert had not marked the revolvers with the manufacturers name 'Hopkins and Allen' (known for inexpensive and poor quality weapons), the Merwin Hulbert would be as well known as Colt, Smith & Wesson, and Remington. Merwin and Hulbert additionally purchased several firearms manufacturers. Merwin and Hulbert not only designed firearms, but imported firearms and retailed firearms and other goods in a large sporting goods endeavor. In 1868 Merwin formed a partnership with William and Milan Hulbert, who owned 50% interest in Hopkins & Allen. This company folded after the end of the Civil War. Joseph Merwin was involved with marketing and manufacturing revolvers as early as 1856 when he formed an arms company known as Merwin & Bray.
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