Pistol—but what kind?

[BuckleBoy]

Hello All,

I dug this today in Louisiana. I’m hoping it’s real and not a toy but I’d like to know what I’m dealing with before I clean it with vinegar or electrolysis. It’s most certainly made of iron.

Thanks all for your insight!

 

[jewelerguy]

the way the butt part is completely covered in rust tells me the grips are cast iron which in turn tells me it's a cap pistol. Also, lot's of proportional details are off such as the space between the grip and the trigger guard, and the area where the cylinder is looks awfully thin. So my vote is cast iron toy pistol

 

[villagenut]

I have to agree with jewelryguy......So let's get that thing in a electrolysis bath and reveal it. Either way, it needs some good intervention.