Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a fantastic British Victorian Era double barreled percussion pistol, marked on both locks by W. GRIFFITH. We believe that this was most likely made by gunsmith William Griffiths of Manchester, England, as often the "s" could be left off the end of the names. It is definitely an upmarket example, with lovely engraving on the iron fittings, and it features lovely "Damascus" steel smoothbore barrels, which still show a clear spiral forging pattern on the exterior. These measure 5 3/4 inches in length, and are in approximately 32 bore, for some great "man stopping" power. With an overall length of 11 1/2 inches, this would have been perfect for a belt or inside an overcoat to use for self defense.

The pistol features a full stock, with checkering on the wrist, and has inlaid nickel silver escutcheons on both the back and bottom of the grip, as well as around the barrel wedge. This removes relatively easily, allowing the underside of the barrels to be seen, which retains the original Damascus forging lines quite well. Both barrels are marked with the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC "proof" and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V "viewed" marks from the English city of Birmingham, correct markings for 1813 and later manufacture. There are also W.J markings on the bottom of each, most likely the maker of the barrels. Of interest is that the underside of the muzzle is fitted with a swiveling "captured" ramrod, which can be used to load either barrel. We usually only see these on military pistols and carbines, making it a very interesting appointment.

Overall the pistol is in very nice sound condition, with a lovely patina of age, showing that it has been well cared for over close to 200 years. The engraving in the iron fittings is well retained, and the metalwork has a great aged look to it, while the stock looks great, showing little to no wear, just some light denting in areas. The bores of both  barrels are in great shape, and we do not think this saw any real use during its life, which is why the cap nipples are in such great shape, showing no real powder burn. We checked the action, and both back action locks are fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full.

A lovely double barreled percussion pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: 32 bore - about 0.52"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 5 3/4 inches
Overall Length: 11 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Back Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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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.