This Mauser Model 1878 Zig-Zag is a factory-engraved example in 7.6mm with a 3 5/8-inch round, top-ribbed barrel and an excellent bore. Z-shaped grooves in the cylinder give it the name; a rod moving forward as the hammer is cocked rides them and turns the cylinder. Roughly 95 percent of the nickel remains, with loss at high points; the gold-washed cylinder, hammer and trigger keep gold in the grooves and traces outside, now a golden brown. Floral and line-dot engraving covers the frame, trigger guard and grip straps, and the excellent hard rubber grips carry a floral pattern with a fantasy creature at the bottom. The action functions properly.

Engraved Zig-Zags surface about once a decade, so this is an antique for a serious Pennsylvania collector, not a shooter, and it will spend its life in a case. Pennsylvania has no permit to purchase, no registration and no waiting period; the transfer runs through federal Form 4473, the state Record of Sale and a PICS check at your dealer.

Key features

• Mauser Model 1878 Zig-Zag revolver, 7.6mm
• 3 5/8-inch round barrel with top rib, excellent bore
• Factory engraved, gold-washed cylinder, hammer and trigger
• About 95 percent nickel remaining
• Excellent hard rubber grips, floral pattern

Handguns ship to a Pennsylvania FFL dealer for Form 4473, the Record of Sale and a PICS check; you must be 21 or older to take delivery.