19th Century English new Land Pattern Cavalry Pistol With A Stepped And Bolted Lock
The last of the British Cavalry flintlock pistols before the new percussion cap system took over.
Many of these pistols were converted to percussion cap, but this one retains its original flintlock configuration and also has the Proof Marks for William IV rather than the old stock of GR Proof barrels that were being "used up".
The metalwork is in good condition with the steelwork having a smooth even grey patina and the barrel having a light scattering of pitting.
The barrel is stamped with the Crowned IVR (struck slightly off centre), a Crowned B Inspectors stamp and another that I can't distinguish.
The stepped lock carries a sliding safety belt, a Crowned Broad Arrow stamp as well as the large Crowned WR.
The mainspring is strong and the action is crisp in both half and full position and both the frizen and safety bolt are smooth in operation.
The brasswork is also in good condition and has a clean but generally unpolished patina.
The walnut stock is also in great condition and has a deep rich polished colouration. it seems to carry a deeply struck rectangular stamp just behind the sideplate, but I can make nothing of it and there is what seems to be a faint Board of Ordnance stamp on the right shoulder.
Overall a good clean example of military pistol stamped for a Monarch who only reigned for 7 years.
Barrel length 22.5cm, Overall length 38cm.
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
