remington 1890 info needed

[gmaque]

Scottie
Good Afternoon. This is George McAllister (gmaque@aol.com). I pretty sure what you have is not a 1890 Model, but rather a more rare 1888 Model. Your gun is most likely a 1875 Model that was altered in 1888 when Remington went under and was taken over by Hartley and Graham. 1888 Models will have a 1875 style barrel address, along with a under barrel web similar to a 1890 Model. The numbers you see on the gun are the serial number and the alteration number. The serial number should match the number found on the grip frame under the left grip. The alteration number is the number you see on the front of the frame and on the web. There are no records to tell us how many 88's were made, but ongoing research leads us to believe there were only several hundred. The engraving on the gun doesn't look "factory" to me, but I'm no expert so it's only my opinion. Unless you have some records or history on the gun, I don't know of any way to find out who owned the gun originally. If you will check the RSA Journal index's (found here on the site) you'll find there has been several good articles on the 1888's. You can purchase past issues of the Journal through the site. I think what you have is a excellent and beautiful example of one of the most rare Remington revolvers. CONGRATULATIONS. I would like to encourage you to consider joining the RSA. The RSA is filled with a great bunch of friendly and knowledgeable Remington experts who are always will to share. We'd like to have you as a member too.
If you have any other questions please post them here or email me.
Regards,
George
GBA

[DavidFagan]

It does appear to be an 1888 but it doesn't look like factory engraving and with all the different part no's it can't be. Additionally the grips are not original either that's what they look like when they are artificially aged by being heated. It is however a very beautiful gun that has been expertly engraved and refinished.

[gmaque]

Yes, I agree with David. The engraving appears to have been applied much later and the grips look to be aged. Still, a really pretty gun and one you should be pleased to own. Thanks for posting the great pictures, I enjoyed seeing them.