Original Colonial Indian Made EIC Model 1843 Type Percussion Dragoon Pistol with British Barrel Markings Original Items

Original Item: Only one available. This is a very nice “Colonial Made” dragoon pistol, patterned very much after the standard British EIC Cavalry Pistol Model of 1843. First adopted in 1843, this model pistol replaced the Model of 1840 that had the “old series side lock” which appeared (but wasn’t) to have been constructed from flintlock parts. The “new series side lock” introduced with this example would be the prototype for the standard locks used by the British until the introduction of the Martini-Henry in 1871. This pattern 1843 became the principal handgun of the East India Company up until it was taken over by the British home Government in 1859.

This example looks to have been made in India, either by the East India Company workshops, or by a local artisan. The pistol has the trapped swivel ramrod for use while mounted on a horse. It also has the standard lanyard ring on the butt, to keep it from being dropped, and very much looks the part of a Model 1843. The fit and finish on the gun is not up to British quality, though it is still quite well made considering the tools available in the area outside of the workshops. The lock is definitely locally made, and bears imitation markings, which are meant to look like English, but in reality are completely incorrect. There is even an imitation royal cypher on the tail of of the butt plate.

The barrel however definitely looks to be BRITISH made, with London Proof Marks on the barrel, which are somewhat worn but still legible. These include the CROWN / GP “gunmaker’s proof” and CROWN / V “viewed” markings from the London Gun Company proof house. There is also a CROWN / 3 marking. We have examined them carefully, and the shape and font are correct for a British barrel, and it is also the correct 9 inches long with a 0.67″ bore.

Condition overall is very good, and it has a great aged look. We checked the action of the lock, and it does work, though it does not hold at half cock. The cap nipple is in good shape, though we do not know if it is clear through to the barrel.

A very nice example of a locally made EIC Model 1843 Dragoon Pistol with a British-marked barrel, ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber:  .67″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion lock side action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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