Mid 19th Century English Percussion Cap Overcoat Boxlock Pistol With Sprung Bayonet Signed Brighton
With a very attractive damascus pattern to the barrel and crisp foliate engraving to the body, trigger guard and silver (white metal) buttcap.
The left side of the lock is signed "Brighton" in Gothic script and the barrel is stamped with Birmingham Proof Marks.
The metalwork overall has a very attractive dark patina and I believe that this may be the original case hardening.
The mainspring is strong and the action is very crisp in both half and full positions.
The trigger guard slides cleanly to release the bayonet which has a very strong spring, and on that note, the bayonet still has a bit of an edge to it so as I would with any bladed item I would advise great caution in operating it.
The barrel unscrews cleanly and smoothly.
The one piece bag shaped walnut grip is finely hatched, has a silver (white metal) buttcap and blank escutcheon. It is in great condition with no shrinkage, splits or cracks and just a few age related bruises.
As to the maker, I could only uncover a couple of makers with the name of Brighton and as this pistol maker hasn't left us an initial or location I will list them here;
- Henry Brighton of London - Whitechapel 1846 then Back Church Lane until 1867.
- Robert Brighton of Norwich - 1849-1853.
- William Brighton also of Norwich listed with just one date of 1852.
A very crisp piece with a beautiful damascus barrel.
Barrel length 9cm, Overall length 21.5cm.
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
