October 25, 2023 The Paul Friedrich Collection of Firearms & Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/25/2023
The Bridgeport rig was developed by Louis Flatau and patented as a "Pistol and Carbine Holder," designed to allow a user to quickly rotate and shoot a revolver without drawing it from an enclosed holster. To accomplish this, a screw on the frame of the Single Action Army was replaced with a longer screw with a dome head which was slotted into a 2-pronged piece of spring steel, which was then mounted onto a steel plate and copper riveted onto a belt. The practical effect of this was that the revolver could now turn in a full range of motion and be fired without ever needing to draw it from an enclosed holster or even remove it from the piece of spring steel. The device did not enjoy widespread appeal as the lack of an enclosure meant that the pistol was exposed to the elements, was retained by a fairly fragile single point of contact, and, most damningly, if used on horseback could result in the steed being shot. While the military did not adopt it, it did enjoy some specialized use with gunfighters who appreciated the rapid access. Typical Bridgeport legends on the device, which is mounted to a 42" W.H. Clay made belt with basketweave tooling, floral borders, and 10 loops for .45 caliber ammo. Nickel plated Colt is a standard 4 - 3/4" with a typical SAA front sight, 2 line Colt information on top of barrel, early kidney shaped ejector head, blackpowder frame. Matching numbers observed on frame, trigger guard, and butt. Typical 3-line patent date, "45 CAL" and Colt VP on trigger guard. 1 piece smooth ivory grips. CONDITION: Colt retains approximately 30% of the nickel finish, with balance a mixture of dove grey and smooth chocolate patina. Legends are softened but legible. Grips are solid with some minor handling marks and shrinkage. Cylinder pin screw replaced with a modern iteration. Mechanically fine with all 4 Colt clicks, bore with good visible rifling and moderate abrasion and frosting throughout. Belt is very good with some crazing and cracking at edges consistent with old leather, but is pliable and strong. Rig fits appropriately, and retains revolver well. A nice example of a fairly scarce and unusual device.
Accessories
Belt with Bridgeport Rig
Caliber/Bore
.45 Long Colt