Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very interesting variation of the Prussian Modell 1823 Umgeaendertes Modell (Modified Model or UM) Cavalry Pistol, which has definitely led a long and interesting life, as indicated by the plethora of markings stamped into the metal components. First introduced in 1823, this design cavalry pistol originally featured a full length stock and flintlock, however after the Prussian Modell 1850 percussion pistol was introduced, existing M1823 pistols were converted to percussion, and with this example, the stock was also shortened and a new nose fitting installed to match the M1850. Normally we see these with just the lock being converted to percussion, but it looks like there were definitely some variations in how the pistols were updated.

Both of these models were in many ways an anomalies which were already obsolete when produced or converted to percussion. At that point in 1841 had already invented and put into service the revolutionary needle fire gun, the forerunner of all bolt action rifles. In spite of these, the overall design was one of the longest serving military pistols in Europe, not being replaced officially until the Modell 1879 Reichsrevolver was introduced. The M1823 and M1850 seem to have shared many components and tooling in their manufacture, as the lock plates are almost identical.

Many M1850s also have "nipple protectors" fit into the frizzen mechanism, which is exactly what we see on this pistol. However we can definitely tell that it is a flintlock conversion, as there is a filled in area under the cap bolster on the top of the lock plate, which is marked with a relatively clear CROWN / Potsdam / GL, indicating production at the Prussian State Arsenal in Potsdam, "Potsdam Magazin". The right side of the marking is faint, but still legible with a magnifier. There are also proof marks on the "nipple protector" and also on the top edge of the lock plate. We tested the lock, and it still holds correctly at half cock, firing at full. The right facet of the barrel is dated 1841, with a number 7 on the top facet, and the left facet is a CROWN / FW, for Prussian King, which in 1841 would have been Frederick William IV, who reigned 7 June 1840 – 2 January 1861. We did however note that the side plate of the pistol is marked with 1835, which could be a date, in which case it was made during the reign of Frederick William III. There are additional proof marks on the side plate and other components.

The most interesting part of the pistol, aside from the stock modified to the M1850 style, are what look to be three different regimental designations stamped on various parts, probably from being reissued multiple times. As a pistol that could conceivably have been in service for close to 40 years, it definitely must have been issued to numerous individuals. The tang of the barrel is marked 2 E G 2, while the front tang of the trigger guard is stamped with 6. 4. 6 U. 61, and the bow of the trigger guard is marked 10. r. E.. We also noticed another faced regimental marking perpendicular to this marking, which is very faint, and looks to read: 6. L. ?. 37.. We would assume one of these is an Uhlan regiment, possibly a life guard regiment, and maybe others. The regiments in existence prior to the formation of the German Empire in 1871 are hard to research, so unfortunately we have not been able to find much in the way of information.

The pistol features a very nice walnut stock, with a single brass barrel band at the front end of the shortened stock. The trigger guard does not have a spur, which was introduced with the M1850, and there is the correct brass butt cap with an intact iron lanyard loop, so that it would not be dropped while on horseback. Condition of the pistol is very good, showing a lovely patina of age. The brass components have matured to a lovely mustard color, and the iron and steel components have a lovely gray peppered look. The stock has the expected wear and small dents from service, but no major cracks or chunks missing. We did notice some old wood worm holes on the stock, but these do not appear to have compromised it structurally.

A lovely 19th century Prussian Cavalry pistol with along history and some fantastic markings! Definitely some fantastic research potential in what would be a worthy addition to any European firearms collection. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1841
Caliber: .63 inches (pistol)
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Barrel Length: 9 1/4 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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