Original U.S. Single Shot Percussion Boot Pistol marked New York Circa 1850 - Serial 150

Original Items: Only Pair Available. This is a lovely single shot percussion "boot pistol", made circa 1850, most likely made based on the designs of Ethan Allen, a very influential 19th century New England area gunmaker. Our offered example measures approximately 7 7/8 inches long with a 4 inch long barrel, and was intended to fit in the side of a boot, or a large vest pocket. It is well patinated, looking to have seen a good amount of exposure to the elements, and has a mottled peppery patina overall. It has a lovely "bag" shaped grip as often seen on these.

Due to the design, the barrel is rotated slightly to the left, so that the hammer doesn't obscure the sights. In front of the rear sight it is marked faintly as follows:-

WARRANTED
CAST STEEL

On the left side facet next to this, we can see a faint NEW YORK marking, but no other maker markings are present. There were numerous gunmakers working in New York during the mid 19th century, so there are many possible makers. The bottom of the barrel is marked with serial 150, which matches the one on the bottom of the action in front of the trigger guard. It is possible that the barrel was originally able to be unscrewed, however it is definitely frozen in place now.

Overall condition definitely shows long use, and we can see what looks like a repair to the hammer. The action works well, holding correctly at half cock and firing at full, though the main spring is definitely a bit weak. We checked the bore, and we can see rifling on the interior, but also large areas of fouling and past pitting.

A lovely patinated single shot boot pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: approx .30"
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Overall Length: 7 7/8 inches
Action: Single Action
Feed System: Single Shot

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