SCARCE Antique AMES U.S. NAVY Model 1842 BOXLOCK .54 Cal. Percussion Pistol 1 of only 2,000, Dated Pre-MEXICAN AMERICAN WAR

Product Description

SCARCE Antique AMES U.S. NAVY Model 1842 BOXLOCK .54 Cal. Percussion Pistol

1 of only 2,000, Dated Pre-MEXICAN AMERICAN WAR

Here we present an antique N.P. Ames U.S. Navy Contract Model 1842 “Box Lock” Pistol, in .54 caliber, made circa 1844 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Only 2,000 of these were made by Ames. Most of these scarce pistols saw service through the American Civil War. This one was made just prior to the Mexican-American War. Unlike most martial pistols of its time, the hammer is mounted on the interior of the lock plate. It also features a captive ramrod on a swivel to avoid loss in the sea during boarding maneuvers. Its smoothbore made loading straightforward.

The Model 1842 saw service during a time of great change and increasing tension, as well as firearms innovation. The Mexican-American War (1846-1848), the numerous conflicts with Native Americans, annexing of new territory, the rising blood-pressure over slavery, and a quick 36% population increase that all culminated in the blood-letting of the American Civil War. This was the first official percussion pistol to be adopted by the U.S. and simultaneously the last large smooth bore single shot pistol. By 1845 it was the primary issued weapon to the First and Second Regiment of Dragoons, replacing many of their Model 1836 flintlocks, just in time for the Mexican-American War. The Model 1842 was the last single shot smoothbore pistol issued by the U.S. Army.

The overall condition is very good. Gray patina. The action is crisp and strong. The bore is smooth and in nice shape. The walnut stock shows wear and remains solid. The left stock flat has two visible cartouches. The one at the rear is “JL” for Lt. Joseph Lanman, while the one at the front is not quite legible. The breech of the barrel is inspector marked “RP” for Richard Paine. A very nice example of a scarce US Navy pistol!

Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.

Barrel is 6 inches.

Caliber: .54 Percussion

Overall condition as seen in photos.

Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail!

Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.

www.ancestryguns.com

$2575
#217305