Sale
Item: ONSV8566A

Original U.S. Model 1836 Flintlock Cavalry Pistol by Asa Waters Converted to Percussion - dated 1840

Lifetime Authenticity

Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee

We ensure our artifacts are genuine, giving buyers long-term confidence in value and historical accuracy.

Learn More
Lifetime Authenticity

Have military antiques you want to sell?

We pay top dollar! Click the link below to get started.

Sell your items
  • Original Item: Only One Available. Adopted in 1836, the production of this model continued until 1844, and this flintlock pistol intended for Cavalry was widely used in the Mexican/American War. A total of almost 41,000 units were produced before being replaced by the M-1842 Percussion pistol. Many flintlock pistols were later converted to percussion, such as this example.


    This example was made by Asa H. Waters of Milbury, Massachusetts, and is still clearly marked on the lock:-


    (Eagle Head)
    A. WATERS
    MILBURY MS.
    1840


    Comes complete with its "trapped" swivel Ram Rod for easier use by mounted cavalry troops when reloading, though it does look to be a fabricated replacement. The pistol measures 14" overall, with a smooth bore barrel of 8 1/2", and unfortunately due to powder burn we can no longer read the inspection proofs on the barrel. Some years after production, probably in the early 1850s, it was converted to percussion, after which it only saw long use, most likely in the Civil War. There are still the remains of the brass pan attached to the lock plate, as is correct. The barrel is a "cone-in-barrel" or "Belgian" style conversion, with the cap nipple cone attached directly to the barrel.


    The pistol is all steel mounted, the only brass components are the remnants of the brass powder pan and the brass fore sight. In nice condition overall with a nice oxidized gray patina on the steel components, showing some surface oxidation, and some more advanced corrosion near the cap nipple cone due to powder burn. The lock functions correctly, holding half-cock and dry firing at full.


    The stock is in good condition, with the expected wear from long service. The metal components are somewhat "proud" over the wood now due to wear, and there is also a chunk of wood missing just to the front of the lock. This is a bit smoothed over, so it looks to have seen additional service after this. There is also a small crack running from the rear lock screw to the breech area, a very common occurrence.


    A very nice percussion converted example of a U.S. Martial pistol with a lovely patina of age, ready to display!


    Specifications:


    Years of Manufacture: 1840 - converted later
    Caliber: .54" Pistol
    Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
    Overall Length: 14 Inches
    Barrel Length: 8 1/2 Inches
    Action: Flintlock Side Action
    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.


  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

We Buy Military Antiques

Our team expert buyers travels the world to pay fair prices for entire estate collections to singular items.

START SELLING TODAY