Original Item: Only One Available. This U.S.-made single-shot, smoothbore pistol is a lovely service used example of the Model 1842 percussion pistol, produced by Henry Aston & Co. of Middletown, Connecticut. Henry Aston manufactured approximately 30,000 Model 1842 Pistols under two government contracts between 1845 and 1852. The other main manufacturer of these pistols, Ira Johnson, had been a partner in Aston's firm, until he left to start his own company. Aside from the markings, the pistols from both firms were identical.

The Model 1842 was intended for use of Cavalry, and has a .54" caliber 8 1/2" barrel, with a with swivel steel "captured" ramrod for easier loading while on horse back. The pistol is 14 inches long in total, and still has a good amount of the markings, though they are worn. This is especially true on the barrel, which due to primer powder burn has lost just about all the markings. Overall the pistol now shows a lovely dark peppered patina on the metalwork. This pistol is in very good condition, with no signs of major repairs, just honest use and wear from service. The ramrod and swivel link are still present, making this a very nice complete example.

The lock plate on this example is faintly marked U.S. / H. ASTON in front of the hammer, and MIDDTN / CONN / 1850 on the tail of the lock plate. The barrel is proof marked with a faint JH on the left side flat. This could be one of several inspectors working on pistols at the time, usually thought to be Joseph Hannis, John Hannis, or James Harris. Definitely some great research potential here!

It has a very good condition walnut stock with Brass mounts, all lightly used condition with a lovely color and finish. The stock does have a small crack running from the rear lock screw to the barrel, a very common place to see these. There is also a repair on the inside of the lower grip, where there used to be a makeshift lanyard hole. There are however no structural cracks, and this really is a very nice stock, though it has been cleaned much over the years. This unfortunately has removed any stock cartouches that were present on the left side.

The lock is functional and holds correctly at half cock, firing at full, and the captured cleaning rod is fully functional as well. This Model was widely used in the U.S./Mexican War and then in the U.S. Civil War.

A very nice example of a historic gun in nice honestly used condition! Ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1850
Caliber: .54 inches
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Barrel Length: 8 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 14 inches
Action: Percussion Lock
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.