So I know I do not post here a lot, but I have been playing with cap and ball revolvers for a few years. I worked for a gun store that had just a box full of parts that I would tinker with and build guns out of. I also do ACW reenacting and living history, so I have a couple of decent revolvers for the rare opportunity to use one in an impression.
Recently I traded for an unfired repro 1859 Sharps off an old friend. Well he had a bunch of random BP stuff that he wanted to unload and just give me. One of the things I ended up with was the Hawes .44 "Navy," brass frame. Lock up and timing seem perfect. Nipples appear to be aftermarket, and my Remington #10 caps will not fit (caps are too small). Other than that, the only real downside is that the sight bead is missing. It looks like someone tried to replace it at some point as there is old epoxy in and around the hole. I would have already replaced the bead, but it's hard to pay $10 shipping on a $4 part, so I'll just get a bead the next time I order more substantial parts or gear. My buddy said he paid $100 for it at a gas station (being sold by the gas station inside the store) in Montana maybe five years ago. Either way, I never complain about free (to me) guns.
I am trying to figure out who made it and when. It has no proof markings anywhere that I can see on the frame or the barrel. It is marked "Black Powder Only" on the bottom left flat of the barrel just above the reloading lever. It is marked "HAWES" on the right side of the frame near the front of the frame. Right side of the barrel is marked "CAL .44 NAVY MODEL - MADE IN ITALY." Stamped "COM" within a rectangular box on the underside of the barrel hidden by the loading lever. Serial number is on the frame and barrel and match: 2292.
I know these guns aren't worth much at all--I am just curious about who made it and when. If pictures would help, I can take some and attach them to this post. I appreciate any input.
ETA: And by "not post much," I clearly meant this is my first post! Ha--I did not realize I have never posted here before. I have been coming here for years to learn from you guys!