Original French Modèle 1837 Navy Percussion Pistol made at Châtellerault Arsenal with Belt Hook Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a fantastic example of a French Modèle 1837 Navy Percussion pistol, complete with the original belt hook still present on the left side. Holsters were impractical at sea, and the leather would quickly be degraded by the sea environment, so a pistol that could be fastened over the belt was preferable. To prevent loss, the ramrod is a “captured” type, attached with a swivel at the front of the barrel.

The barrel tang on this example is correctly marked M’le 1837, and there are also some proof marks near the breech end of the barrel on the left side. There is a Naval “Anchor” proof stamped into the butt plate next to the lanyard ring, used to keep the pistol from falling to the decks or overboard. The lock is marked:

M’re R’le
de Châtellerault

This is the abbreviation for Manufacture Royale de Châtellerault (also known as Manufacture d’Armes / Imperieale de Châtellerault), the Imperial Arsenal in central western France. Most of these that we see are made at the arsenal at Tulle, which is where most of the Naval arms were made during this period, however it looks like they were also made at the other arsenals in small numbers as well.

The pistol has the standard 6 1/2 inch smoothbore barrel, 12 inches in overall length with brass and iron mountings. The stock is lovely, with a dark brown color, and a great polished patina. The lock is functional, however a strong trigger pull can cause it to discharge at the half cock position, so the tumbler does need some adjustment. The bore of this pistol is in great condition, showing little evidence of use.

These are relatively rare, and this is only the fourth example that we have been able to offer. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840
Bore Diameter: 0.60″
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 6 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 12 inches
Action: Back Action Percussion
Feed System: Single Shot

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.