*SOLD* Whitney Wolverine .22 LR Blue 4 5/8" *RARE & DESIRABLE MODEL*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

The Whitney Wolverine is a unique and innovative semi-automatic .22 caliber pistol designed by Robert L. Hillberg, a research engineer at High Standard Manufacturing Company. Produced between 1956 and 1958, the Wolverine was groundbreaking for its time, with only 13,371 units manufactured during its brief production run. Hillberg, who had gained expertise in aluminum casting during World War II while working with aircraft guns, applied his knowledge to the Wolverine’s frame, which was crafted using investment casting by Alcoa. This method, considered innovative at the time, was a major departure from traditional forging and is now a standard practice in the firearms industry. The Wolverine featured distinctive plastic grips in black, dark brown, or white, with the white grips most commonly found on the nickel-plated models, of which about 500 units were made. The rest of the pistols were finished in varying shades of anodized blue, adding to their distinctive appearance. 
 
The futuristic design of the Wolverine, with its clean lines and ergonomic shape, was unlike anything else on the market in the 1950s, setting it apart from the typical pistols of the era. The Wolverine was marketed with slogans like “Lightning” and "Tomorrow's Pistol Today," underscoring its forward-thinking design and modern appeal. Despite its limited production, the Whitney Wolverine gained attention for its innovative use of materials and its unique, futuristic aesthetic. Hillberg, who considered the Wolverine his greatest achievement, held over forty patents in firearms design and was deeply involved in every aspect of its creation. The pistol's legacy, however, was somewhat constrained by Whitney Firearms Company's marketing missteps, particularly after signing a marketing contract with Galef, which ultimately hampered the gun's broader success. Nonetheless, the Wolverine remains a significant milestone in the history of firearms, with its blend of technology, design, and engineering making it a notable piece of American gun manufacturing history. The influence of Robert Hillberg on firearm design is undeniable, and his contributions continue to be remembered as some of the most influential in the industry.
Specifications:

Manufacturer: Whitney 
Model: Wolverine
Serial: 23956
Date of Manufacture: 1955-1962
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle 
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 4 5/8"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Fixed Notch Rear 
Stock/Grips: Brown Checkered Grips 
Action: Semi-Automatic 
Markings: Standard

May 19th 2025 Bryant Ridge

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