Guns International #: 103267164
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Guns International #: 103267164
Category - Antique Pistols - Percussion
- Antique Pistols - 1500-1850
US Model 1842 Percussion Pistol
Description: The US military adopted the Model 1842 pistol as its first percussion fired handgun, replacing the flintlock Model 1836. Springfield Armory contracted gunmaker Henry Aston in Middletown, Connecticut, to produce the Model 1842 with most of the approximately 42,000 pistols being made from 1846 to 1855. Like its predecessor, the Model 1842 was a smoothbore, single shot pistol in .54 caliber with an 8 1/2 inch barrel, and a swivel type steel ramrod. Even though the Model 1842 was replaced by revolvers in the years leading into the Civil War, it still saw extensive use during that conflict. This Model 1842 was made in 1851 and is all original. The hammer is tight in both the half and full cock positions. The trigger is tight with no creep. The swivel ramrod works properly. The lockplate is stamped ahead of the hammer with "US H. ASTON & CO." and behind the hammer with "MIDDTN CONN 1851". The barrel proof stamped on the breach reads "US WN P" (on three separate lines near the nipple) indicating it was inspected by Walter North who was an inspector of contract arms at Springfielf Armory in the 1850s. Also stamped on the barrel's left side at the breech are the initials "JH" which stand for Springfield Armory sub-inspector Joseph Hannis who worked as a civilian arms inspector for the Ordnance Department. Other markings include "H" on the brass just behind the tang, on the trigger guard, and on the left brass side strap. "1851" is stamped on the tang. There are two inspectors' cartouche marks on the left flat of the stock. One is fairly sharp and the other less so. The brass is in excellent condition with a nice patina. The steel barrel is in good condition with some pitting around the nipple area and an overall nice patina befitting the gun's 174 year old age. The lockplate is in nice conition with clear stampings. The inside of the barrel is smooth. The metal has no dents or dings. The wood is in very good condition with a good finish and no cracks or repairs. I tried to provide clear pictures of the steel, brass, and wood, but if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. Having been made before 1899, this pistol qualifies as an antique and can be shipped directly to the buyer's home. However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to adhere to all of his/her state and local laws for the purchase of this handgun. This pistol is being sold as a collector's piece. Although it appears to be in good condition, it is almost 175 years old. In my opinion it is best to admire this fine gun and not attempt to shoot it. However, if someone decides to fire this gun, this seller cannot be responsible for any injuries or damage that may result. If the buyer wishes to shoot this pistol, he/she should have it first inspected by a competent gunsmith. By purchasing this pistol, the buyer agrees to hold the seller harmless against damage, injury, or death caused by its use. Please add $40 to the purchase price for insured shipping to your address within the continental United States and Alaska. Curio/Relic: Yes Antique: Yes Manufacturer: Henry Aston, Middletown, Connecticut Model: US Model 1842 Serial Number: NA Barrel Length: 8.5 Bore Info: .54 Caliber Condition: Good Metal Condition: Good Wood Condition: Very Good Bore Condition: Good Action: Single Shot Blackpowder Percussion Manufacture Date: 1851 Price: $975.00 Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 103267164
Guns International #: 103267164