Original Item: Only One Available. This very utilitarian double barreled pocket percussion pistol was almost certainly made in Liège, Belgium for the European and American export markets. These were quite popular for self-protection, and having two barrels definitely would give the owner increased protection. Pistols like this were equally at home on dark Streets of New York or of London in Victorian England.

The smoothbore barrels measure about 2 1/2" in length, and were most likely designed so that they can be unscrewed for loading, however they are currently frozen. The pistol measures about 7 1/4" overall, and does not have any type of maker or proof markings that we can see. It is only marked with a serial • 48 or 48 • on the trigger guard, underside of the frame, and on both barrels. The wide "Box Lock" frame has some great foliate engraving on three of four sides, with the trigger guard engraved as well. It features a very nice continental / French style "flat bottom" grip, with a ridge on the bottom for a more secure hold.

Condition of the pistol is very good, showing that it was well cared for while in use. Both hammers will cock and dry fire from the dual triggers, however both will fire easily at the half-cock position. Also the cap nipple cone on the left side is missing, and we were not able to find a replacement, though the threads in the hole are still strong.

A very nice early Victorian Era self defense pistol, ready to Display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840
Bore Diameter: about .44"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Overall Length: 7 1/4 inches
Barrel Length: 2 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Box Lock - 2 hammers
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.