Original 19th Century British Made Percussion “Howdah” Pistol marked MADRAS with Massive Bore Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a really interesting pistol! Firstly, this bears English Proof marks on the barrel, which more or less tells us that it was originally made in England, very possibly for the EAST INDIA COMPANY probably in the 1840’s. This “manly” pistol is brass mounted, and at one time had a swivel ramrod. The 9″ barrel is as big as a Brown Bess bore, even a tad larger, about .8″ It is now a total SLEEPER , not having been cleaned or serviced for over 100-150 years and comes from long time storage. The rust on the lock has obliterated any markings, but this was used for one purpose only.

It is a HOWDAH PISTOL which was carried in the basket atop an Elephant for shooting furious Indian Tigers that were trying to get at the occupants. Its swivel ramrod from which the swivel connector is missing ensured that the shooter did not drop his ramrod “over the side” when confronting his very angry prey. Tiger hunting in India was a very dangerous sport and just occasionally the TIGER WON!!!!

Sound and fully operational but NOT TO BE SHOT ! (We suggest) We offer this item completely AS IS, how it came to us, uncleaned and unrestored. A giant pistol with a giant bore, ready to restore and clean or to display as it is!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840-50
Caliber:  .80″
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 inches
Action: Percussion lock 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.