How do I date an antique English firearm?

Examine the lockplate for maker signatures, town proof marks, and stylistic indicators such as flintlock versus percussion ignition systems. Periods span from the early eighteenth century through the Victorian era. Assessing barrel shapes, silver mounts, and stock configurations like Queen Anne styles further narrows the production window. Birmingham and London proof marks provide additional chronological context.

What is the difference between flintlock and percussion?

Flintlocks rely on a piece of flint striking a steel frizzen to generate sparks into an exposed pan of gunpowder. This older seventeenth and eighteenth-century technology preceded the percussion cap system. Percussion arms utilise a hammer striking a small metal cap placed on a hollow nipple, directing flame straight to the charge. This nineteenth-century innovation offered superior reliability in wet weather.

Were these pistols used for duelling?

Certain pieces, particularly matched sets by makers like Mortimer, were specifically manufactured as duelling pistols for settling disputes. They featured precise rifled or smooth-bore barrels and balanced wooden stocks. Other arms listed served civilian self-defence, naval operations, or military campaigns rather than formal duels. Pocket pistols and sea service arms filled those everyday operational roles.

How should I display or store them?

Store antique firearms in stable environments away from high humidity and direct sunlight to protect the walnut stocks and steel components. Original wooden cases with baize linings provide ideal preservation housing. Keep metal surfaces lightly oiled to prevent active oxidation without altering the historic patina. Avoid handling iron parts excessively with bare hands.

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Antique English Firearms

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Antique English firearms are historic mechanical pieces of craftsmanship, offering collectors tactile links to military campaigns and personal defence centuries ago.

18th century

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Queen Anne Silver-mounted 18 Bore Flintlock Holster Pistol by R. Willoughby, Birmingham early 18th-century English Flintlock Pistol, Silver-wire Inlaid Walnut Grip. Silver Grotesque Butt Cap with Silver Vacant Cartouches to the Top and the Side of the Stock. Circa 1730.

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£1,400

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

A "John Manton" Transitional Six Shot English Revolver, London, Circa 1840.

19th century

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A "John Manton" Transitional Six Shot English Revolver, London, Circa 1840.

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£550

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

18th century

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Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£2,200

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

English "Sea Service", Percussion, Pocket/belt Pistol. Circa 1840 by George Sherwood of Portsmouth.

19th century

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English "Sea Service", Percussion, Pocket/belt Pistol. Circa 1840 by George Sherwood of Portsmouth.

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£380

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

← 1 2 →

Antique English Firearms

Queen Anne Silver-mounted 18 Bore Flintlock Holster Pistol by R. Willoughby, Birmingham early 18th-century English Flintlock Pistol, Silver-wire Inlaid Walnut Grip. Silver Grotesque Butt Cap with Silver Vacant Cartouches to the Top and the Side of the Stock. Circa 1730.

A "John Manton" Transitional Six Shot English Revolver, London, Circa 1840.

Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

English "Sea Service", Percussion, Pocket/belt Pistol. Circa 1840 by George Sherwood of Portsmouth.

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