Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have a James Warner solid frame percussion revolving rifle, one of a few hundred manufactured around the 1850s. Warner operated out of Springfield, Massachusetts and competed directly against Colt’s revolving firearms with his own patented designs. James Warner held multiple firearms patents during the 1840s-1860s and produced several revolving firearm variations. This solid frame design differs from some of his other models and offered a stronger platform than typical top-strap revolving rifles of the era.
This example is chambered in 40 caliber with a 27 1/4 inch octagon barrel. Matching serial numbers appear on the front of frame and bottom of barrel. Warner never achieved Colt’s market dominance, partly due to Colt’s patent restrictions and partly because revolving rifles had inherent safety problems. Chain-fire – multiple chambers igniting simultaneously – was dangerous when your support hand sits forward of the cylinder.
Warner’s production numbers stayed low throughout his manufacturing career. His rifles filled a niche market for shooters who wanted multi-shot capability but couldn’t afford or didn’t want Colt products. By the late 1850s, improved single-shot breechloaders were already competing with revolving rifle designs.
Most of our POTDs utilize images from our friends at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse their current auctions – who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!
Scarce James Warner Solid Frame Percussion Revolving Rifle | Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1049/1325/james-warner-solid-frame-percussion-revolving-rifle. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.
Writer | TheFirearmBlog
Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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