Overall length varies according to barrel length; barrel (bore) length usually 24", 28" and 30"; calibers .32, .38, .44 and .46 rimfire. Markings: frame markings of R. Ball & Co. rifles are similar to Ball & Williams production, only eliminating Ball & Williams marking on left side. Cartridge size, e.g. "No. 44", usually also stamped on top of barrel or frame. Merwin & Bray's patented alternate ignition device usually present with left side of hammer usually marked "PATENTED JAN. 5, 1864". Serial numbers (which follow in sequence with Ball & Williams production. i.e. after no. about 15,800) appear on top of barrel and frame. After William Williams withdrew from Ball & Williams partnership in mid-1865, business continued under name of R. Ball & Co., with Richard Ball's son-in-law, E.J. Halstead, in charge after the former's paralytic stroke in the fall of 1865.