Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very interesting example of a U.S. M-1819 Flintlock pistol made by Simeon North in Middletown, Connecticut, which was later re-stocked and converted to percussion, most likely as a custom order by a gunsmith.

North had a 53 year relationship with the U.S. War Department, and the contract for the Model 1819 pistols was one of the last contracts North had for martial pistols from the U.S. Government. The model 1819 has a longer barrel than the previous model 1816, and features a "captured" ramrod which cannot be easily lost, as well as a half-cock safety on the lock.

This example had the entire stock replaced at some point, so it no longer has the captured ramrod, an it now has a full stock, without the usual iron butt can and other hardware usually on the grip. For the most part it looks like the lock, barrel, and trigger guard were reused, while the other fittings were omitted, and it was fit much more like a standard "private purchase" pistol of the time. Additionally the barrel and lock were modified to the newer percussion system, with a "barrel" style bolster added to the side of the barrel. The lock had the safety removed, the hammer replaced, and the pan, frizzen, and other components removed. It also looks like the front lock screw location on the lock was plugged. Definitely an interesting example with a lot of history!

As it is now, the pistol measures 15 3/4" overall with a .54 Caliber 10" barrel, and only has some minimal fittings now, including a small escutcheon on the back of the grip. There is also a small plaque on the bottom of the grip that is marked with initials JMC, possibly the person who the pistol was made for. The breech of the barrel is proof marked JDJ / P / U.S., which records indicate is "J.D. Johwson", who inspected "M1819 North Pistol Barrels 1819-1822". It is possible however that the last name was misspelled in records, as "Johnson" makes much more sense for a surname.

This Lock marking is still mostly legible, but definitely shows wear from oxidation and subsequent cleaning, especially to the top line.:

The tail of the lock plate under the safety slot is dated with production year 1821.

Overall condition is very nice, showing a lovely oxidized plum patina on the metalwork. The stock is in good shape, though there is some stress cracking on the left side, which looks to be from the original wood used, which may not have been "stock grade". There is a brass fit ramrod under the barrel, but it looks like the end inside the stock broke off long ago, and it was then reprofiled.

A very interesting M1819 Pistol by North that underwent significant modifications during its long life. Ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: 1821
Caliber: .54 inches 
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 10 inches
Overall Length: 15 3/4 inches
Action: Side Action Flintlock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.