Original British Fur-Trade Flintlock Pistol by W. Ketland & Co. with Birmingham Proofed Brass Barrel - circa 1820

Original Item: Only One Available. Specifically produced in England for the North American Fur Trade, these Trade pistols were intended for the use of the Trappers and the Native American population as well. The lock on this example is marked W. / KETLAND & Co., for one of the most famous British gunmaking companies of the time.

This family business was started in 1740 by William Ketland, who is recorded as working from 1740-1804, eventually expanding to have operations in both Birmingham and London as W. Ketland & Co.. Following his death in 1804 the name was later shortened to Ketland & Co., and it operated for decades under this name before finally folding in 1831. However it lasted over almost 100 years transacted a tremendous amount of business both domestically and abroad.

The pistol has all brass mounts including butt cap and grip escutcheon, measuring 13 1/2 in overall length, and the barrel measures 7 3/4" and is about .55 bore. Unlike many that we see, it is still in the original flintlock configuration, which is definitely rare to see. It is also an early style lock, without a frizzen reinforcement bridle. The top of the barrel is marked LONDON, and the left side of the breech bears the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC "proof" and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V "viewed" marks from the English city of Birmingham. These are the correct markings for 1813 and later manufacture, indicating this was made sometime during 1813-1831. There are additional deeply stamped marks that could be London, especially the two P proofs.

Overall condition is very good, showing a great mellow patina on the brass barrel and fittings, while the lock has a great lightly oxidized patina. It it still retains a brass tipped ramrod under the barrel, which looks to be original, and has a lovely clearing worm at the other end. The lock is functional, however it will fire at both half and full cock due to wear on the tumbler. We checked the stock, and we do not see any repairs or damage, just the usual wear from use. It is stamped ET on the left side, and there is actually some lovely flame figuring in the wrist area.

These were widely distributed to the Native populations in both the United States and Canada during the early years after the revolutionary war. In lovely display condition, just what one would have expected to see on the North American frontier!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1820
Caliber: .55" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 7 3/4 inches
Overall Length: 13 1/2 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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