JAMES REID AND HIS CATSKILL KNUCKLEDUSTERS.

Lincoln, Rhode Island: Andrew Mowbray, 1989. 288 pp, 9 1/4" H. B&w photographs, technical drawings, reproductions. "Although the idea of a barrel-less revolver where the cylinder is elongated so the front of each chamber acts as a barrel is not unique, or even rare, its patented knuckle guard which could be used as 'brass knuckles' against an assailant was an appealing invention in its time. In this comprehensive study the author penetrates the mystique of these dual purpose icons of self-defense, so aptly named 'My Friend', and presents a detailed history of James Reid, his factory in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, the pistols which he fabricated there (in all their complex variations) and the inexorable economic forces which eventually brought production to an end. Also included are analyses of the oft' misunderstood non-knuckleduster guns made by Reid - including those made in New York CIty - a history of knuckleduster firearms and a study of Reid's copyists." Book has light cigarette odour, a tiny dark mark at the edge of page 133/134, light wrinkling at the top/bottom of the spine, slight twist to the spine, light edge wear to boards. Dust jacket has light wrinkling at the the top/bottom of the spine and flap-folds, minor yellowing on the inside edges.. Not Signed. First Edition. Hard Cover. Very Good/Very Good.