This martial-marked cap and ball handgun is a Model 1842 single shot percussion pistol produced by H. Aston of Middletown, Connecticut. Aston and Ira Johnson, both of Middletown and the Palmetto Armory of Columbia, SC, produced some 24,000 of these fine horse pistols from 1845 through 1852.

This .54 caliber smoothbore muzzleloading horse pistol is 13¾” long and fitted with an 8½” round barrel. Barrel surface has moderate pitting and oxidation in areas. This pistol has all brass furniture including the buttcap, backstrap triggerguard, side strap and barrel band. All gunmetal wears a light bronze film or patina. Flat, beveled-edge lock plate with thin maker markings. Shows “US / H. ASTON” in front of the hammer and “MIDDtn / CONN / 1849” behind the hammer. Hammer is missing its lock screw. Original nipple and bolster. Stamped on the upper barrel at the breech are the proof marks of “US / GW / P” and the barrel tang exhibits the date “1849”.

Walnut stock has been refinished and bears no inspector’s cartouches on the left flat back. Stock surface is lightly rough and wears a brown patina. One small crack visible on left near the side plate top screw. Pistol mechanics are strong and crisp. Bore is dark and pitted. Pistol retains its original swivel type steel ramrod with its button-shaped head.

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