GUN SPRING 2017
The live portion of this session begins on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.
SCARCE SAVAGE 1907 45ACP, US TEST TRIAL PISTOL. SAVAGE 1907 47 45ACP MODERN; C&R Cal. 45ACP. This massive, impressive and historic pistol is one of approximately 300 Test Trial guns submitted by Savage for military testing in 1907. The rejected guns were later returned and reworked, some by Savage, most by the Tryon Company. During the reworking process the legend on the rib was removed except for the marking "CAL 45.". Guns reworked by Savage were subsequently marked with a small, single line legend adjacent to the rib as per this pistol. During the testing and reworking it was not uncommon for parts to be interchanged. In this case, extended disassembly shows a matching hammer group, rear sight, slide, bbl and frame. The grip panels are unnumbered with the left having a repaired hairline crack that is only perceptible when looking at the inner surface. Orig finish mismatched magazine is number "89". Complete with commercial Heiser holster, Model coded "520" with weave patterned body and snap closure strap. Included with this gun is a series of early research documents piecing together information on the Savage .45ACP Pistols and an original 1905 dated patent document signed by the inventor, Elbert Searle. PROVENANCE: The Frank H. Wheaton, III Collection. CONDITION: Very good with much of the finish having thinned to a toned, dark grey. Approximately 50% of orig fire blue on rear sight with at least 60% orig case hardening on the trigger and magazine release. Excellent orig grips with a deep checkering, slightly blunted on the right panel. Excellent, orig finish, blued magazine. Mirror bore with sharp rifling. Perfect manual mechanics. An impressive and classic part of American history! 51516-12 LMA (9,000-14,500)