Frank Wesson Small Frame Pocket Rifle
Frank Wesson · Rifle · Discontinued · 1870
Also known as: Frank Wesson Model 1870 Pocket Rifle, Frank Wesson Sportsman's Jewel, Frank Wesson Pocket Rifle (Small Frame)
Overview
The Frank Wesson Small Frame Pocket Rifle is a single-shot .22 rimfire target rifle built on a pistol-sized frame and fitted with a detachable skeleton shoulder stock, made by gunmaker Frank Wesson of Worcester, Massachusetts from around 1870. Its octagonal barrel, typically about 15 inches long, pivots sideways for loading after a button beneath the action is pressed to release the breech. With the wire shoulder stock removed via the dovetail in the grip the arm becomes a compact pocket pistol, while attaching the stock turns it into a light rifle for precise target work. Marketed as the 'Sportsman's Jewel', it was aimed at the recreational and gallery target shooter.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 400 g (14.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 464 mm (18.27") |
| Barrel Length | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Action Type | Rotating Barrel |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 340 m/s (1115 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 109 J (80 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 45 m (49 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Iron |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .22 Short · primary — also known as .22 Short, .22 Rimfire, .22 RF
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Notch
- Features: Rotating Barrel, Octagonal Barrel, Detachable Shoulder Stock, Single Shot, Target Sights, Spur Trigger
Service history
Operators
- Civilian market
Production
Production years: 1870-1899
Produced in several frame sizes and barrel lengths; precise production totals are not documented.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Frank Wesson
Discontinued: 1899
Notes
Often classed as a 'pocket rifle' or 'bicycle rifle'; the same pattern was offered in small, medium and large frames and in barrel lengths from roughly 10 to 22 inches. Barrels are marked with the May 31, 1870 patent date. Small-frame examples are chambered for .22 rimfire.
Background
Frank Wesson, younger brother of Daniel B. Wesson of Smith & Wesson, ran his own firearms business in Massachusetts and was best known for his single-shot rifles and pocket rifles. The pocket rifle was a popular Victorian-era novelty and target arm, designed to be carried in a pocket and steadied against the shoulder with its detachable wire stock.