Original British Victorian Double Barrel 32 Bore Percussion Pistol by W. Griffith with Damascus Barrels & Captured Ramrod - Circa 1850

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a fantastic British Victorian Era double barreled percussion pistol, marked on both locks by W. GRIFFITH. We believe that this was most likely made by gunsmith William Griffiths of Manchester, England, as often the "s" could be left off the end of the names. It is definitely an upmarket example, with lovely engraving on the iron fittings, and it features lovely "Damascus" steel smoothbore barrels, which still show a clear spiral forging pattern on the exterior. These measure 5 3/4 inches in length, and are in approximately 32 bore, for some great "man stopping" power. With an overall length of 11 1/2 inches, this would have been perfect for a belt or inside an overcoat to use for self defense.

The pistol features a full stock, with checkering on the wrist, and has inlaid nickel silver escutcheons on both the back and bottom of the grip, as well as around the barrel wedge. This removes relatively easily, allowing the underside of the barrels to be seen, which retains the original Damascus forging lines quite well. Both barrels are marked with the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC "proof" and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V "viewed" marks from the English city of Birmingham, correct markings for 1813 and later manufacture. There are also W.J markings on the bottom of each, most likely the maker of the barrels. Of interest is that the underside of the muzzle is fitted with a swiveling "captured" ramrod, which can be used to load either barrel. We usually only see these on military pistols and carbines, making it a very interesting appointment.

Overall the pistol is in very nice sound condition, with a lovely patina of age, showing that it has been well cared for over close to 200 years. The engraving in the iron fittings is well retained, and the metalwork has a great aged look to it, while the stock looks great, showing little to no wear, just some light denting in areas. The bores of both  barrels are in great shape, and we do not think this saw any real use during its life, which is why the cap nipples are in such great shape, showing no real powder burn. We checked the action, and both back action locks are fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full.

A lovely double barreled percussion pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: 32 bore - about 0.52"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 5 3/4 inches
Overall Length: 11 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Back Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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