Guns International #: 102940872
Seller's Inventory #: 247408

Category - Antique Pistols - Percussion - Antique Pistols - 1500-1850

Category
Antique Pistols - Percussion
Antique Pistols - 1500-1850

Antique HENRY ASTON & Co. U.S. Contract M1842 .54 Smoothbore Pistol DRAGOON 1851 Dated Percussion U.S. MILITARY Contract Pistol

Description:
Antique HENRY ASTON & Co. U.S. Contract M1842 .54 Smoothbore Pistol DRAGOON

1851 Dated Percussion U.S. MILITARY Contract Pistol

Here we present an antique Henry Aston & Company U.S. Contract Model 1842 Dragoon’s Percussion Pistol, made in 1851 in Middletown, Connecticut. Henry Aston was a gunmaker from Middletown who received a government contract to produce 24,000 Model 1842 pistols in his first contract for the firearm that spanned from 1846-1851. Between 1851 and 1852, he received a second contract for an additional 6,000 units. Because of the overlapping 1851 dates, it is unclear if this example is from the first 24,000 or from the second 6,000. 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 1842 features sturdy construction with lots of brass for support. This was important during a time when one would expend their shots and still have a fight on their hands. Striking your opponent with the pommel of your gun was quite effective. The ramrod is captive, so that it would not be lost in the heat of battle on top of a horse. Many of these were used, especially initially, by both sides during the American Civil War.

The overall condition is very good. The action is excellent. The bore is patinated and smooth. The stock shows two good cartouches and the customary split at the front lock screw head, otherwise solid!

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

Barrel is 8-1/2 inches.

Caliber: .54 Percussion

Overall condition as seen in photos.

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ancestryguns

$1800

#247408
 

Price: $1,800.00                     Buy Now

Antique: Yes