Original Item: Only One Available. Adopted in 1836, the production of the Model 1836 continued until 1844, and the flintlock pistol intended for Cavalry was widely used in the Mexican/American War. A total of almost 41,000 units were produced before being replaced by the M-1842 Percussion pistol, which featured a different barrel and lock, but retained the other design characteristics.

However, during the changeover period there were leftover components of the Model 1836 in various stages of completion. Asa H. Waters of Milbury, Massachusetts, used these components to make transitional models, which featured flat lock plates, not the rounded version used on the 1836 nor the beveled edge version of the model 1842. These are therefore referred to by collectors as "Flatlock Waters" pistols, and they displayed significant variations in construction style. This example does not have any markings on the lock, but still has the unmistakable flat lock plate, and is otherwise identical to the Cavalry pistols used.

This example has a "barrel" shaped cap nipple cone bolster on the right side of the barrel, with a flat lockplate that is inlet in the top for the bolster. There is no brass component or any others signs that the lock was converted from a flintlock. It comes complete with its "trapped" swivel Ram Rod for easier use by mounted cavalry troops when reloading. The pistol measures 14" overall, with a smooth bore barrel of 8 1/2", which is marked J H / P on the breech, for Joseph Hannis, who inspected Waters Pistols from 1838-1862.

This pistol, unlike many examples we see, has a brass side plate, trigger guard, and trigger, while the rest of the fittings are al steel. It still retains the correct brass blade fore sight, and is in nice condition overall with a polished steel patina on the steel components, showing areas of past oxidation. There is powder burn around the cap nipple and on the hammer. The lock functions correctly, though it does not have any provision for a half cock position.

The stock is in very good condition, with the expected wear from service, showing some cracking on the left hand side. There are no cartouches on the wood, which were removed by cleaning. The grain is lovely, and the surface has a very nice glow.

A very interesting example of a "Flatlock Waters" percussion pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Years of Manufacture: circa 1845
Caliber: .54" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Overall Length: 14 Inches
Barrel Length: 8 1/2 Inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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