Original 19th Century U.S. “Man Stopper” Pocket Percussion Pistol with .70″ Bore Octagonal Barrel – Circa 1850 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This lovely continental style percussion pistol is made very much in the Belgian / French style, but it is completely unmarked, so we believe it was made in the mid 19th Century in the United States. At the time many similar pistols were being sold to countries all over the world, most originating in Belgium. These were quite popular for self-protection, and were equally at home on dark Streets of New York or of London in Victorian England.

This example features the typical “box lock” design, and has engraving on the sides of the frame, as well as on the back strap. It also has a lovely engraved hammer, which looks to be a sea monster or possibly a ram’s head. The smoothbore barrel measures 2 7/8 inches in length, and has a MASSIVE .70″ bore, which would be a 14 bore / gauge. This would have shot a massive ball that would have stopped anyone in their tracks. Looking inside the bore, we can tell that this was definitely designed to unscrew from the frame for reloading, but it is definitely now corrosion and powder seized. The pistol measures 7 1/4″ overall, and there are no markings whatsoever, which definitely points to U.S. manufacture, as they had no proof houses for private manufacturers. The pistol features a very nice wooden “bag” style grip, which is very comfortable to hold.

Condition is very good overall, showing a lovely matured patina on the metalwork. The wooden grip shows wear, but not to an extreme amount. The lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. We checked the bore, and it definitely is worn, showing oxidation and fouling from significant use.

A very nice 19th Century U.S. self defense pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Bore Diameter: about .70″
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Overall Length: 7 1/4 inches
Barrel Length: 2 7/8 inches
Action: Percussion Box Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.