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Rare Second Generation Manville 25mm Anti-Riot Gas Launcher

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,200.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Rare Second Generation Manville 25mm Anti-Riot Gas Launcher
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Estimate: $3000 - 5000
Developed in the 1930s by Charles Manville, a machine shop owner. After the success of a series of gas pens and a 12ga gas pistol, Manville invented what he termed the "Machine Gun" (NOTE: this is not an automatic weapon, it is only a marketing term), a 12 gauge, 24 shot launcher, which was followed up with a 25mm, 14 round model. These weapons were quite literally ahead of their time, using a combination of a revolver style trigger assembly and a heavy clockwork spring to drive the cylinder, an arrangement seen on such weapons as the Street Sweeper shotgun and several modern grenade and less-lethal launchers. Measuring 20 inches in overall length, with a single bead sight at the muzzle and a pair of large thumbscrews on top, which secure the barrel and drum assembly to the drive cam and receiver. The left side of the front pistol grip bears the patent markings, "MANVILLE MFG. CO." atop the receiver, and a multicolored Manville label on the left side of the trigger group. The cam assembly is equipped with individual firing pins for each chamber, allowing for continued firing in event of a jam or break. Grips are checkered, with "M" imprints at the top. In 1943, following a failed attempt to sell the military on a 37mm anti-armor launcher based on these weapons, Manville ordered all material related to the gas guns, including papers, prototype and remaining stock, destroyed. Manville Manufacturing spent the war making components for Oerlikon A-A guns, earning the Navy "E" pennant, and left the arms trade after the war. NOTE: This arm was designed for use with muzzle dispersion loads, and is not intended to fire a solid projectile.
BBL: 13 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 25 mm
Finish: blue/nickel
Grips: metal
Serial Number: 824
Condition: Very good, showing some light spotting on the alloy surfaces, a mixed brown patina on the blue barrel. Grips show light wear and smoothing. Mechanically excellent.