Original British Over & Under Flintlock Double Barrel Tap Action Pistol by Andrews of London c. 1800 Original Items

Original Item: One of a Kind. Just acquired from an old collection, this is a very nice British over and under pistol with 1 1/2″ turn off barrels for loading. On the left side there is a switch so one can decide which barrel will discharge. The pan has a rolling compartment each to serve one of the barrels so effectively the shooter has a second shot at his disposal directly after the first barrel has been fired. They would also choose to fire both at the same time. This type of mechanism is known as a “tap action,” and while most were 2 barrel, there were even examples made with 3 or 4 barrels. There is also a slide safety mechanism rear of the hammer, which locks the pan closed as well as holds the hammer at half cock.

The box lock action and barrels are made of iron or steel, with a very nice flat sided walnut grip. The right side of the box lock is marked LONDON and the other side is marked ANDREWS. This is a known London gunmaker who operated in London from approximately 1780 to 1810. This pistol was most likely made circa 1800 and would have been perfect for an overcoat pocket for self defense or for a serving Officer to carry concealed in case of emergency.

Like many “London” gunsmiths, Andrews also operated in Birmingham, and the barrels both have the Crowned Crossed Scepters / V “viewed” marking on them. The underside of the breech is marked with the same marking, as well as the Crowned Crossed Scepters / BPC definitive Birmingham Proof.

It is fully functional, though the action and safety area bit stiff, and the trigger pull is VERY stiff at full cock. The turn-off barrels and frame are numbered 6 and 7 on the left side, so that the correct barrel is reinstalled. Unfortunately at present both barrels are seized in the frame. This also means that originally this may have been part of a larger set, with 5 other barrels to account for. Possibly a “Duck’s Foot” pistol?

A very nice example from Georgian London, probably about 200 years old and still in very good order and condition. Ready to display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1800
Caliber: about .39″ Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 1 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 6 inches
Action: Flintlock Top Action with Pan Tap
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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