Original British Percussion Converted Flintlock Officer’s Dueling Pistol by Ketland & Co. – Circa 1810 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a very nice British Officers “Dueling” pistol made circa 1810, marked on the lock by Ketland & Co., with London engraved on the top of the barrel. This family business was started in 1740 by William Ketland, who is recorded as working from 1740-1804, eventually expanding to have operations in both Birmingham and London as W. Ketland & Co.. Following his death in 1804 the name was shortened to Ketland & Co., and it operated for decades under this name before finally folding in 1831. However it lasted over almost 100 years transacted a tremendous amount of business both domestically and abroad. Their Birmingham markings were so well known that in 1813 they became the official Birmingham Proof marks.

The pistol is a very nice relatively plain brass mounted dueling pistol fitted with a 10 inch long octagonal barrel, and measuring 15 1/2 inches in overall length. Originally made in flintlock, it was later converted to percussion, most likely during circa 1830. The attachment points for the frizzen and spring can still be seen on the lock plate, with some of the holes now plugged. There are still remnants of the flash pan on the lock plate as well, partly removed for installation of the “barrel” style cap nipple cone bolster. The left side of the barrel breech is marked with the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS proof of Ketland.

Overall the pistol is in very nice sound condition, with a lovely worn patina. The metalwork has a lovely polished gray color, and the stock has a lovely color and grain patterns. The stock however has had the entire front half replaced at some point, with additional repairs made later, so it is definitely an old workhorse of a gun. The pistol functions, however the tumbler is worn and it will fire at both half and full cock.

A very nice percussion converted pistol ready to research and display! Available at a very nice price due to the well-executed period stock repairs.

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1810
Bore Diameter: .65″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 10 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Side Action
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.