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, however this example escaped that fate, and is still in the original flintlock configuration! It is a very late production example, probably one of the last flintlocks to be produced before the factory switched to M-1842 production.

This example was made by Robert Johnson of Middletown Connecticut, and is still marked on the lock:-

The left side of the barrel breech also still has visible proof marks reading JH / P. We believe that this is the inspector marking for James Harris, who is noted for inspecting "R. Johnson, I.N. Johnson Pistols and Colt 1851 Revolvers 1837-1851". There are also several other possible inspectors this could be. The left side of the stock still has a faint oval JCS cartouche, which looks to be for John C. Stebbins, who inspected the very similar pistols by Asa Waters, so it is possible that he inspected some Johnson pistols as well. The construction of the two pistols is also identical, so it's always possible during service at arsenal that a stock may have been swapped. Definitely some great research potential here!

The pistol comes complete with its "trapped" swivel Ram Rod for easier use by mounted cavalry troops when reloading. The pistol measures 14" overall, with a smooth bore barrel of 8 1/2", and the lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. The pistol is all steel mounted, the only brass components are the brass powder pan and the brass fore sight.

In very nice condition overall, the pistol definitely shows that it saw long service, but was also well cared for, the steel now showing a mostly bright polished patina. The stock is in very good condition, with light wear from service. It has been cleaned and polished, and is actually made from some very attractive walnut. There are some faded markings visible on the stock by the lock plate, as well as on the bottom, which may be opportunities for future research.

A very nice attractive example of a rare unconverted M1836 flintlock pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Years of Manufacture: 1843
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.

IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition, and are not tested for the the ability to feed or load any type of cartridge. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers" not for use, and we make no guarantees regarding functionality aside from what is stated in the description. Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.

Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.