Starr revolvers were surpassed in production numbers only by Colt and Remington during the Civil War and are thus a key piece in Civil War revolver or cavalry collection. In fact, along with Remington, Starr dominated US revolver purchases starting in 1864 after US Ordnance baulked at Colt’s pricing. This is one of Starr’s Model 1863 Improved Army Revolvers, six-shot and .44 Caliber like its Model 1858 predecessor, but using a longer 8” barrel.  Using a single-action mechanism, which seems a technological step backwards from their double-action M1858 but, simplified the mechanics. Less machining lowered production cost and sales price ($12 apiece versus $20 for the old double action, reduced from $25,). Maintenance issues in the field were reduced, compared to the fidgety double actions, though they still met mixed reviews. A contract for 25,000 was signed in September 1863, with the first delivery made in December 1863 and the contract was completed in December 1864 with a total of 25,002 delivered to the government out of a total estimated production of 32,000.  Serial numbers run from the low 23000 range to the upper 55000 range. Given those numbers and recorded government deliveries, this one, number 29,455, likely dates no later than April or May 1864.

This Starr Army has all original parts and good markings. Serial number 29455 is clear on the cylinder and frame. The “STARR ARMS CO., NEW YORK” stamp on the left side and the “STARR’S PATENT JAN. 15, 1856” on the right are both clear. A small, “L” letter factory sub-inspector initial can be found on various parts. The metal shows a darker grey gun metal tone with a very small trace of original blue in the tightest recesses. Original front sight with a small amount of muzzle wear. The grips have a good fit, but show handling marks- scratches and dings, with wear and chips around the bottom edge and small dings on butt. The outlines of a rectangular inspector’s cartouche are visible on the left grip at bottom.  Mechanics function well. The bore is slightly dusty.

Ordnance records do not usually distinguish between the M1858 and M1863 Starr pistols as issued to specific units but, McAulay records more than forty regiments armed in whole or in part with Starr pistols at some point in their service. Despite the large production numbers, however, they are not all that common. Thousands made their way west from surplus sales after the war and tens of thousands were sold to France in the Franco-Prussian War. Even Germany appears to have acquired some.  [stp][ph:L]

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