This most pleasing of martial sidearms is a government contract Model 1819 single-shot flintlock pistol in good condition. Gunsmith / manufacturer Simeon North of Middletown, Connecticut, produced 20,400 such pistols from 1819 through 1823. This type specimen was the introduction in American arms of the swivel-style steel ramrod.

The 15½” long military pistol is a .54 caliber smoothbore muzzleloader with a large 10” round barrel with a fine, semi bright bore. All gun metal parts were finished brown on this weapon. The barrel retains much of this original finish with some scattered spots where the finish has worn thin. All other iron parts retain a strong brown finish. Barrel has a brass blade front sight and an oval shaped, grooved rear sight on tang. Lockplate is flat with beveled edges forward of the hammer and convex to the rear. Unique to US martial arms, this horse pistol has the small sliding safety slide or bolt at rear of the hammer.

Maker name on the lockplate is crisp and deep while the last half of the maker’s name is weak. Lock face exhibits “S. NORTH / eagle / U S / MIDLtn CONN” in front of the hammer and dated 1822 behind the hammer. Inspector and proof marks strongly stamped on barrel at the left breech area: “RJ / P / US”. The handsome black walnut stock exhibits a pleasing dark patina with traces of a single inspector’s cartouche on the flat opposite the hammer. Stock has no visible cracks.

The hammer and frizzen are original as are all lock parts. Brass flash pan is detachable and angles upward at the rear. The frizzen spring remains sharp and tight. Mechanics are good. Small trigger retains colors. Trigger guard riveted to the plate. Round butt cap displays a long integral tang that forms the rear strap of the grip. Pistol has a semi-bright steel, button-head swivel ramrod.

A great single-shot martial-marked flintlock Model 1819 contract piece by Connecticut-maker Simeon North.   [ad]

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