.41 Volcanic Pistol and Carbine Cartridge – No. 2
Z9940 .41 Volcanic Pistol and Carbine Cartridge – No. 2
Description: Very nice example of a .41 caliber Volcanic No. 2 cartridge, an important early self-contained metallic cartridge associated with the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company, New Haven Arms Company, and Smith & Wesson. These cartridges were used in the Volcanic No. 2 pistol, Volcanic No. 2 carbine, New Haven Arms No. 2 Navy pistol, and Smith & Wesson No. 2 revolver.
This example features the post–December 1855 configuration, with a brass cap, cork wafer, and iron anvil. Unlike many earlier examples that exhibit multiple grooves, this specimen has only three grooves (cannelures), representing a later variation within the Volcanic series. Production of these cartridges is generally attributed to Crittenden & Tibbals of South Coventry, Connecticut.
This design represents a significant improvement over the earlier Hunt & Jennings "Rocket Ball,” patented August 10, 1848 (U.S. Patent No. 5,701). Subsequent refinements by Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson, patented January 22, 1856 (U.S. Patent No. 14,147), introduced an improved priming system utilizing a steel disc beneath the cork wafer with centrally located fulminate. Later developments added a copper cap, with the final iteration employing a brass cap as seen here.
These cartridges were originally packaged in tins containing two rows of 100 rounds separated by thin pasteboard sheets, with labeling either on the exterior or underside of the lid depending on the variation. Volcanic cartridges were produced in only two primary sizes: the No. 1 (.31 caliber) and the No. 2 (.41 caliber).
A fine early metallic cartridge representing a key developmental step linking the Volcanic system to later Winchester Repeating Arms Company innovations.
Headstamp: None
Measures: OAL.680” D .422” Weight 116 Grains
Reference: "Round Ball to Rimfire” Thomas Vol. 3, Pg. 223, No. 1056 (Variant)
Price: $225.00 UPS Shipping Required
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