Percussion pistol
John Stirling
Category
Arms and armour
Date
1845
Materials
Metal, iron, wood, baise, brass, leather, bone
Measurements
245 mm (L)
Place of origin
Burnley
Order this imageCollection
Rufford Old Hall, Lancashire
NT 783351.1
Summary
One of a pair of cased percussion pistols, c1845, by John Stirling of Burnley (recorded 1847).
Full description
One of a pair of cased percussion pistols, c1845, by John Stirling, Burnley (recorded 1847). Octagonal iron barrel formed integrally with the breech and the pistol frame. The top flat engraved Jno. STIRLING, BURNLEY. The underside of the breech stamped with Birmingham 1813 proof marks. Blade foresight at the muzzle and a raised rear sight at the breech. Engraved muzzle band. The barrel has an under-rib with a linked stirrup ironramrod. Barrel length 12cm. Calibre 8mm. Walnut grip of bag-shape form, chequered overall, the pommel with engraved white-metal cap. The grip inset with a vacant silver escutcheon. Iron box-lock frame with engraved top-strap and trigger guard. Side mounted percussion hammer. Sliding bolt safety catch behind the hammer. Overall length: 24cm Case: Mahogany with brass locks and handle. Size 33 x 21 x 6cm. The interior lined with green baise and divided into compartments containing; screw driver, nipple key, cleaning rod, jag, worm, brass & leather oil bottle marked “The Blanch, registered August 1st 186?” (belongs to RUF/A/137). 2 compartments with lids and ivory handles.
Marks and inscriptions
Barrel top: Jno Stirling, Burnley
Makers and roles
John Stirling, maker
References
Bailey & Nye, 1978: DeWitt Bailey & Douglas Nye, English Gunmakers: Birmingham & Provincial Gun Trade