Mid 19th Century English Private Purchase/Contract Sea Service Percussion Cap Pistol
Made to the dimensions of an 1842 Pattern Sea Service percussion cap pistol in 0.58" calibre, this appears to be a private commission piece made by George Daw.
It carries none of the regulation stamps, but the barrel is stamped with Birmingham Proof Marks and the number 25.
It also carries the name "George H Daw, 57 Threadneedle Street London". The lock is also engraved with "G H Daw". I haven't been able to find out a great deal about George Daw, but I do have this;
Born in 1829 and passed away in 1892 he was both a Gunmaker and a Retailer. According to his trade labels the business was established in 1780, so it would appear that he came from a line of Gunmakers.
He went into Partnership with John Witton in 1851 to form Witton Daw & Co and they operated from 82 Old Broad Street before moving to Threadneedle Street in 1852/53.
It seems he took control of the Company in 1860 which is when he started making his pieces G H Daw.
The lock on this piece is in lovely condition with a smooth and dark finish showing no visible signs or corrosion.
The mainspring is both strong and smooth with the action being very crisp in half and full position.
The barrel shares the same patina but does have some very light pitting in areas.
The stock is free of splits and cracks but is heavily marked with small bruises.
Finally the brasswork has a lovely dark, clean patina.
A great example of an Officers private purchase piece.
Barrel length 15cm, Overall length 29.5cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
