RARE Charles Folsom New York Army Bull Dog .44 Salesman Sample Revolver

Rare Charles Folsom, New York, Engraved “Army Bull Dog” Salesman's Sample Revolver, Nickel Plated with American Eagle Grips, .44 Cal, mfg. circa 1880's.
This is a really fascinating revolver and only the second example we have ever seen.
The top of the barrel is marked “ARMY BULL DOG 44 CAL”. The cylinder measures 1 ¼" long and is probably intended for .44 Bulldog. Charles Folsom ran a vast sporting goods store in New York during the second half of the 19th century and sold items across the nation through his catalogs. The pistol measures 10" long overall and features a 6" part octagon/part round barrel fitted with a silver blade front sight. The gun is engraved throughout in a variety of patterns ranging from flowing scrolls to punch dots, zig-zag banners, and patterned lines to showcase the different styles of embellishment that could be had. Overall the gun retains approximately 15-20% original nickel finish with the balance worn to plum/gray. The barrel sides show heavier wear with scattered pitting. Original hard rubber grips depict an American Eagle clutching arrows and olive branches with four old “kill” notches carved on the right side. They fit perfect and show light wear with no chips or cracks. Original hammer, trigger, loading gate, and knurled cylinder pin. The action is crisp and smooth and functions nicely in both single and double action and the cylinder cycles properly. The cylinder is designed to free-spin at rest and locks up when the trigger is pulled which it does relatively on time and with moderate play. Good bore with very sharp distinct rifling front to back and light scattered blackpowder frosting. A super cool and unusual piece of Wild West firearms advertising history that certainly saw frontier use as well.