This martial-marked cap and ball pistol is a very fine and pleasing specimen of the 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 a 14” long weapon fitted with an 8½” round barrel. Pistol has been heavily cleaned about the hammer, lockplate and barrel with all brass furniture a mottled darkened bronze patina. Lockplate maker markings are  good and show “US / H. ASTON” in front of the hammer, and “MIDDtn / CONN / 1848” behind the hammer. Stampings on the upper barrel at the breech of proof marks have been cleaned away.  No date on the barrel tang.

The excellent black walnut stock displays two inspector’s cartouches on the left flat back of the side plate. Stock has very pleasing smooth wood surface. Pistol mechanics are super tight and crisp. Bore semi-bright, could use a cleaning. Weapon has its original swivel hinge and steel ramrod with a button-shaped head, also cleaned.  All gunmetal exhibits a light gray scheen with scattered spots of light pitting on the surface.

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire.