October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2018
Extremely rare, incredibly impressive Manville tear gas gun, 25mm, in its original case with Christopher Walken DVD picturing same on case cover. This chrome plated example with 18 shot rotary cylinder is marked "Manville MFG. Co." on top of frame. Patent information is marked on the left side of the vertical forend with serial number on the front. Major parts are chrome plated with strawed tempering spring, secured by two knobs, keeping the barrel/cylinder portion connected to the receiver. Black plastic logo embossed grips each secured by a single screw. This very interesting gun, of Hollywood fame, was introduced in 1935 and manufactured from their corporate offices in Pontiac, MI, in 12ga, 25MM and 37MM. Steel inserts were available to convert to larger 25MM to fire the more readily available 12ga buckshot loads. However, this was later deemed illegal and unlawful under the Public Safety Act of 1934. This company ceased to exist in an extraordinary series of incidents when in 1933 when Charles J. Manville ordered all drawings, remaining weapons, parts, jigs and tooling to be destroyed for some unknown reason. This exceptional example is complete in its original hard shell box, black pebbled leatherette with nickeled reinforcements, central lock surrounded by two latches. Internally lined with green cloth having separate support for barrel and compartment for related accessories. Included is a copy of the original instruction booklet, several black and white period photos, and a sealed DVD "The Dogs of War" showing Christopher Walken handling an identically configured Manville. Complete with a well made black wooden display stand. CONDITION: The tear gas gun is excellent plus, retaining well over 97% of its original chromed finish with just superficial box related scuffing and a few minor spots of oxidation on the barrel. Near new grips. Perfect bore and manual mechanics. The box is in very good, near excellent, with external scuffing and minor tears as one might expect from carrying such a heavy instrument. DVD is new in sealed wrap. An absolutely awesome tear gas gun, even better with case and accessories sure to impress any of your friends.