So, a big part of "pocket pistols" in the mid 19th century were diminutive single shot pistols, often called "muff pistols" (insert Beavis and Butt head snickers here). Starting with flintlocks, then moving to percussion as that became the go to for ignition systems after about 1840 or so, these were usually around .36-.40 caliber, and often used short barrels and folding triggers to keep them as pocketable as possible.

I have a couple examples, and they are cool, but not anything I every felt like I would want to try shooting, even with mild loads. I viewed them as cool artifacts more than anything else.

I'm not sure when Pedersoli started making their reproduction of this style pistol, but they have been around a good while. They make a kit version, a standard version (which I got) and from what I can tell, at least a couple of "deluxe" versions.



I have seen several with what looks like basic simple engraving on the body, but one online that had fine checkered grip, and full coverage scroll engraving on the body. I went for the "affordable version when I saw one listed online, and asa bonus, it came in a nice homemade wood case with a flask and cap tin.



These are screw barrel pistols, instead of muzzle loading, you unscrew the barrel, fill the powder chamber and then place a properly sized ball on top of the chamber and screw the barrel down. The makes for a tighter fit for the ball, and higher velocity. I am still not thinking it's .357 level, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't want to get shot with one. Especially considering the state of medical technology at the time!

The cool part is, this one I can shoot, leaving mt originals alone!

Bill R

Stylo;
Where do you find this stuff?!?! Another beautiful pocket pistol!
That pin-fire revolver (French, I think) that's engraved is still my favorite!

That looks like it would be fun to shoot! A good way to extend range time and enjoy the zen of shooting.

quote:

Originally posted by CPD SIG:
Stylo;
Where do you find this stuff?!?! Another beautiful pocket pistol!

“I have a crippling gunbroker addiction”…

So yeah, mostly online, but there are a couple shops locally who sometimes have cool stuff.

Here’s a crappy cellphone shot of a couple originals with the new one.



The new one is cool, but doesn’t hold a candle to holding the original and thinking about who bought it, where it’s been, and how it got here….

Bill R

Old guns, old watches...if they could talk, the stories they could tell.

Pedersoli has been, and still is, making some stellar old reproductions of random guns...and I love it. The last I picked up was an Alaskan Howda in .45/.410 - awesome gun!

quote:

Originally posted by inspcalahan:
Pedersoli has been, and still is, making some stellar old reproductions of random guns...and I love it. The last I picked up was an Alaskan Howda in .45/.410 - awesome gun!

I really, really, REALLY want the flintlock Howdah they make. To the point that Ali am afraid to do a search for it, just knowing that if Insee it, I do not have the strength to not buy it!

Bill R

quote:

These are screw barrel pistols,

Hand tight? I don't see a wrench or lug for wrench on the barrel like the period guns have.

quote:

Originally posted by SigFan:
That looks like it would be fun to shoot! A good way to extend range time and enjoy the zen of shooting.

I saw the last ammo shortage looming. I had enough to weather any storm. But, not enough to play with. Loaded up on blackpowder, caps and balls.

My Ruger Old Army had a good run for awhile there.

quote:

Originally posted by Jim Watson:

Hand tight? I don't see a wrench or lug for wrench on the barrel like the period guns have.

Well... There's a wrench included. However, it appears designed to work by inserting into the muzzle and engaging the rifling...

So, yeah, I'm thinking just as tight as I can get it by hand! There seems to be plenty of thread engagement, so I am not too worried about getting id locked down tight.

Bill R

quote:

There's a wrench included. However, it appears designed to work by inserting into the muzzle and engaging the rifling...

Ah, OK, I have heard of that type, too.