This unusual-looking gun is a nice Model 1842 Naval pistol; a pattern likely copied from the British by Ames. This was a compact, percussion ignition, single shot pistol with a one-piece walnut stock.

It has a round 6” long smoothbore barrel in .54 caliber. Brass furniture includes a single barrel band, trigger guard, and round butt cap inset into the grip. The latter two show a small “R” inspection stamp. The captive swivel ramrod under the barrel operates perfectly, and is also clearly copied from British design. The breech is marked, “USN / 1845 / RP / P”. The initials “RP” are those of civilian arms inspector Richard Paine, who inspected U.S. contract small arms for the Navy from 1839 through 1848.

Most interesting is the “Inside Lock” or “Box Lock” that is used, where the hammer was contained inside the lock plate. This left the exterior of the pistol snag free and perhaps easier to tuck into a waistband, belt, or sash. The lock plate marked in three horizontal lines under the hammer, “N.P. AMES / SPRINGFIELD / MASS”. The back end of the lock is marked in two vertical lines, “USN / 1845”. Mechanical action is strong and crisp.

The stock of the pistol is in good condition and is free of any breaks or repairs. A large number “34” is stamped on the left flat and an extremely faint inspector cartouche remains.

The pistol shows evidence of honest use, but not abuse, overall. There are fine dings and scratches to the gun metal and brass, as well as wear and small dings on the stock. There is light pitting at the breech, muzzle, and on lock plate. Still, a very nice and solid Civil War Naval pistol.  [jet] [ph:L]

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