Original Item. Only One Available. This is a lovely iron framed "boxlock" style flintlock vest pocket pistol dating to approximately 1815, fitted with a great spring loaded bayonet under the barrel. It is marked with engraved stands of arms on both sides of the action, with RICHARDS on the left side and LONDON on the right. There were various makers with the last name "Richards" working in London during the early 19th century, including John Richards, William Richards, Theophilus Richards, and others. Many of these were related and worked in various partnerships over the years, so needless to say, this was a well-known and respected name in the London gun trade. The bottom of the action in front of the trigger guard bears the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC "proof" and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V "viewed" marks from the English city of Birmingham, used from 1813 to 1855 for black powder arms. It was very common to operate in both cities, but London had greater prestige, so all guns were marked as such even if made in Birmingham

The weapon measures 7 1/2" in overall length with a screw off 2 3/8" smooth bored .43" caliber iron cannon barrel, which in very good condition, showing signs of light to moderate use. Like most that we have seen, the screw joint is seized, or was possibly soldered closed due to the spring bayonet. This is mounted under the barrel and attached to the muzzle area, and features a 2" long triangular blade. This is held closed by the trigger guard, which has a catch at the front, released by pulling back the entire trigger guard. The spring is still strong, so the bayonet swings out and locks into place. A small button latch on the right side releases the bayonet, which can then be returned to the stowed position.

The pistol is really in great shape, with a lovely matured patina on the bright steel frame and barrel, which shows no evidence of major cleaning or past major oxidation. The engraved designs are still crisp, and it really looks great. There is also still much "fire bluing" on the springs for the bayonet. The action works great, with the hammer holding correctly at half cock, and firing at full. There is also a very nice sliding safety to the rear of the hammer, which is fully functional. The frizzen locks down securely over the flash pan.

The end of the frame is fitted with a slab sided walnut grip in lovely display condition, with some great grain and a lovely finish. The grip flares out just a bit at the bottom, and is checkered on the back and bottom. There is also a lovely silver escutcheon on the back of the grip, which looks to have a monogram on it.

A great Flintlock pocket pistol, suitable for any Gentleman or Military Officer, with a rare folding bayonet. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1815
Caliber: .43" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 2 3/8 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Action: Flintlock Boxlock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.

IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition, and are not tested for the the ability to feed or load any type of cartridge. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers" not for use, and we make no guarantees regarding functionality aside from what is stated in the description. Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.

Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.