3374

Engraved Wilkinson London Production Percussion Howdah Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,750.00 - 4,500.00 USD
Engraved Wilkinson London Production Percussion Howdah Pistol
Buyer's Premium is 20.5% by credit card, reduced to 18% if payment is made by cash, check or wire transfer. Contact Rock Island Auction Company to complete your registration with the auction house.

Estimate: $2750 - 4500
Manufacturer: English Model: Percussion
Most famous for the production of swords, razors, and commando daggers, Wilkinson Sword Company started life as the firm of Henry Nock, designer of the multi-barreled Nock Gun, and was renamed by his son-in-law, James Wilkinson, in 1804 following his death, and remained in the firearms trade for several decades afterward. Originating in India, the first howdah pistols were rifles chopped down to pistol size as a field-expedient defense against tigers, lions, and other dangerous animals. Later, gunsmiths started producing them on order for those who felt the need for maximum close-range firepower. Single nickel bead sight, with the one line "WILKINSON LONDON" address on the rib, floral and scroll engraving on the breech and tang, and a side-mounted blowout disc for each chamber. Both lock plates are marked "WILKINSON", with attractive scroll engraving, floral screw heads, fish head hammers, and niter blue half cock safeties and triggers. A swivel mounted ramrod is mounted to the muzzle, with floral engraving on the head and scrollwork on the swivel and pipe. Fine walnut stock, with scroll engraved escutcheons and trigger guard, pineapple finial, floral pattern screws, blank square silver inscription panel on the wrist, checkered grip and a flared butt with engraved patch box.
BBL: 8 1/2 inch solid rib
Stock:
Gauge: 70
Finish: brown/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: NSN
Condition:
Very fine as period refurbished, with 98% of the brown twist finish, showing minor handling marks overall. Some light spotting is present on the muzzle. Over 70% of the case colors are present, especially on the upper tang and right lock, smoothly turning brown elsewhere. The stock is also very fine with a few light scratches and dents, and attractive grain. The left safety switch needs adjustment, otherwise the pistol is mechanically excellent.