This is a US Model 1842 "Box Lock" pistol manufactured by N. P. Ames of Springfield, Massachusetts in 1845. Between 1842 and 1845 Ames produced approximately 2000 of these .54 caliber smoothbore pistols. The pistol has an overall length of 11 1/2", with a 6" round barrel. These pistols were finished browned barrels, but this barrel has an attractive, "National Armory Bright" finish. The exterior of the barrel has a smooth surface with very light pitting near the bolster. Stamped near the breech in four lines are U.S.N/1843/JCB/P. The sub inspector stamp of P can be found on the bolster. There are no sights fixed to the barrel. The bore gauges at .56 caliber and is a light brown with no rust or pitting. The swivel type steel ramrod with button head is still with this old sea pistol. The brass barrel band is pinned to the one piece stock. All the iron hardware has the same matching patina of the barrel. The mechanics of the lock work perfectly. Stamped on the lock in three crisp lines under the hammer are N.P. AMES/SPRINGFIELD/MASS, and USN/1845 stamped vertically at the rear of the lock. The brass barrel band, trigger guard and plate and butt cap all have a matching golden patina. The trigger bow has the sub inspector stamp of R, while the butt cap has the sub inspector stamp of J. The stock is in excellent condition, showing only very light dings and bumps from normal handling. There is one small crack in the wood, extending from the right front of the trigger plate approximately 1". It is very shallow and poses no problems with the integrity of the weapon. There is also one very small chip of wood missing at the ramrod just behind the barrel band. These are mentioned for accuracy, and do not detract from the eye appeal of this rare weapon.All edges of the stock and barrel channels are very crisp. The shadow of one, possibly two, inspector cartouches are faintly visible on the left side, both oval stamps. The initials within the oval stamps are no longer legible. This Model 1842 USN pistol comes with a USN stamped brass bullet mold. The Model 1842 has the distinction of being the first US martial percussion pistol produced and delivered under contract to the government. The Model 1842 box lock pistol was the primary handgun issued to Navy and Marine Corps personnel prior to and during the Mexican American war. There is ample evidence to show these naval arms also saw service in the Civil War. This US Model 1842 USN box lock pistol remains in original condition, and is an excellent example that would compliment any Naval collection, or any US martial pistol collection.

Item # AA2856

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