Original British Sea Service Percussion Pistol by Barnes & Co of London with Belt Hook and Captured Ramrod - Circa 1840

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice early Victorian Private Purchase Sea Service pistol, marked on the rear of the lock plate by the maker BARNES & CO / LONDON, and bearing a "Queens Crown" in the center of the lock plate. With no "V.R." under the crown, this was made for export or private service, and not officially issued to the Royal Navy. Frederick Barnes & Co. are a known Victorian Era gunmaker, recorded in London at 3 Union Row between 1851 and 1856, 109 Fenchurch Street between 1851 and 1904, and at 67 Minories between 1851 and 1855. The Company also had premises in Birmingham between 1831 and 1903, and in Sheffield between 1839 and 1904.

The pistol is minimally mounted, with only a brass trigger guard and small brass ramrod pipe under the fore stock. It features a single lock screw, and the iron side plate has an attached 4 3/4" long belt hook on the left side of the stock. As with many naval and cavalry pistols, it features a "captured ramrod", so that there was no way to drop and lose it. The pistol measures 11 3/4 inches in overall length, and the barrel measures 6 1/4 inches with a bore measuring about 0.58".

It is fitted with an early style percussion lock, which almost looks like it was converted from flintlock, however there are no inlets for a frizzen or pan, so this was definitely originally made as percussion. The top left of the barrel 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 1813-1855. As this maker operated in Birmingham from 1831 onwards, we believe it was made around 1840.

Overall condition is very good, showing a great mellow patina on the brass trigger guard and fittings, while the lock plate and other metalwork bear a great lightly oxidized patina, showing cleaning. The cap nipple cone is still present, however it is definitely worn from use and powder burn. We tested the lock action, and it is strong, but will fire at both half and full cock.

A lovely early Victorian Sear Service pistol, ready for research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840
Caliber: .58" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 6 1/4 inches
Overall Length: 11 3/4 inches
Action: Percussion Side Action
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.