Fenton London Percussion Pistol | Antique English Flintlock Conversion Firearm | Circa 1780–1830
Description
More
Less
Historical Context & Origin
Region: London, England
Material: Steel barrel and lock with ornate hand engraving; walnut stock with checkered grip
Period: 19th Century (ca. 1780-1830)
Description
A fine example of English gunsmithing, this .62 caliber percussion pistol was crafted by FENTON of London, a respected name in British firearm manufacture. The pistol features a finely engraved lock, hammer, trigger guard, and side plates, paired with an octagonal barrel marked “LONDON.” Its walnut stock, elegantly shaped and checkered for grip, demonstrates both utility and artistry. Compact yet powerful, this sidearm reflects the height of 19th-century British firearm craftsmanship.
Features
- Lockplate engraved FENTON, denoting London origin
- Octagonal barrel engraved “LONDON”
- Ornate hand-engraving on lock, hammer, and hardware
- Walnut stock with finely checkered grip
- Percussion ignition system, replacing the earlier flintlock design
Cultural Significance
Percussion pistols represented a major technological leap in the 19th century, offering greater reliability and faster ignition compared to flintlocks. London gunsmiths, including Fenton, produced sidearms for personal defense, dueling, and travel, often blending function with elaborate decoration. This pistol would have been carried by gentlemen, officers, or travelers in an age when personal arms were both protective tools and statements of refinement.
Condition
Very good antique condition with honest wear. Steel surfaces show a soft age patina with some minor oxidation. Engraving remains well defined. Walnut stock exhibits light handling marks and wear to the checkering, consistent with age and use. Mechanism intact.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 14 in
Age
Mid-19th Century (ca. 1840–1860), London manufacture by Fenton
Learn More
View Similar Pieces in Other Collections: Garth Vincent Antique Arms and Armour
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: London, England
Material: Steel barrel and lock with ornate hand engraving; walnut stock with checkered grip
Period: 19th Century (ca. 1780-1830)
Description
A fine example of English gunsmithing, this .62 caliber percussion pistol was crafted by FENTON of London, a respected name in British firearm manufacture. The pistol features a finely engraved lock, hammer, trigger guard, and side plates, paired with an octagonal barrel marked “LONDON.” Its walnut stock, elegantly shaped and checkered for grip, demonstrates both utility and artistry. Compact yet powerful, this sidearm reflects the height of 19th-century British firearm craftsmanship.
Features
- Lockplate engraved FENTON, denoting London origin
- Octagonal barrel engraved “LONDON”
- Ornate hand-engraving on lock, hammer, and hardware
- Walnut stock with finely checkered grip
- Percussion ignition system, replacing the earlier flintlock design
Cultural Significance
Percussion pistols represented a major technological leap in the 19th century, offering greater reliability and faster ignition compared to flintlocks. London gunsmiths, including Fenton, produced sidearms for personal defense, dueling, and travel, often blending function with elaborate decoration. This pistol would have been carried by gentlemen, officers, or travelers in an age when personal arms were both protective tools and statements of refinement.
Condition
Very good antique condition with honest wear. Steel surfaces show a soft age patina with some minor oxidation. Engraving remains well defined. Walnut stock exhibits light handling marks and wear to the checkering, consistent with age and use. Mechanism intact.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 14 in
Age
Mid-19th Century (ca. 1840–1860), London manufacture by Fenton
Learn More
View Similar Pieces in Other Collections: Garth Vincent Antique Arms and Armour
You May Also Like