In 1851, Samuel Colt filed and won a historic patent infringement lawsuit against the Massachusetts Arms Company.
The company then limited its revolver production to relatively unpopular designs by Edward Maynard until 1857, when Colt's patent expired.
Maynard's rifle was operated by a lever which when depressed raised the barrel to open the breech for loading.
The company also produced single- and double-barrel shotguns, including both box-locks and external central hammers.
The purchase was made to protect the interests of Edward Maynard's widow and provide security for the company's workers.
[3] In the late 19th century the company began producing revolvers on various Smith & Wesson patterns.