London man-stopper percussion pistol, British (c 1840)

Title	London man-stopper percussion pistol
Nationality	British
Period	c 1840

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This has all its original French polish to the stock and traces of finish to the metalwork. The calibre is approximately .54". There is a belt hook to assist concealed carriage on the person. The barrel flat is marked 'London'. Sadly, no maker, but this pistol is typical of the Bow Street Runner era.

The overall condition is excellent for the age of the piece and the barrel is lightly covered inside in dried grease. This has seen very little use. The lock is a back-action lock, which typically dates it to between 1830 and 1850 at the outside. The barrel has a false breach, which lifts out of the stock on removal of the barrel slide. To facilitate this, however, it is probably necessary to remove the belt hook and the side nail. My guess is there are Birmingham proofs on the base of the barrel, although the engraving of the trigger guard, especially the pineapple, would suggest London workmanship.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Firearms : Percussion Pistols : British : 19th Century]

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