GL Richardson Improved Revolving Pistol 40 Cal Percussion Pepperbox Antique
SOLD FOR: $1054
LSB#: 220421DW003
Make: G.L. Richardson
Model: Improved Revolving Pistol
Serial#: NSN
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1830-1870, Antique
Caliber: .40 Caliber
Action Type: Percussion Double Action 6 Shot Pepperbox Revolver
Markings: The barrels feature several faded Birmingham proof marks. The left side of the frame is marked “G.L. RICHARDSON / 36 LORD ST / LIVERPOOL” and has floral scroll engravings. The back-strap, hammer and trigger guard have floral scroll engravings. The right side of the frame is marked “IMPROVED / REVOLVING PISTOL” and has floral scroll engravings.
Barrel Length: Approximately 4”
Sights/ Optics: There is no provision for iron sights.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grip panels are two-piece wood. The grips have moderate handling wear. Notably, the left panel has a light chip at the top, a small portion of the right panel has chipped off at the top and there is a moderate chip at the bottom of the right panel. Overall, the grips are in Good condition for Antiques.
Type of Finish: Blue and Silver
Finish Originality: The barrel is refinished but the rest of the gun is still original.
Bore Condition: The bores are dark and coated in erosion.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 75% of its finish. The barrels have been refinished and have light-moderate pitting visible under the finish. The blue finish has also worn off in several and those areas have taken a patina color. The frame is well preserved and only has a few scattered patches of light discoloration from oxidation. There are also some scattered light handling marks, nicks and scuffs. The markings on the barrel are largely obscured, but the rest remain clear. The screwheads have tool-marks but they remain serviceable. Overall, the pepperbox is in Very Good condition for a refinished Antique.
Mechanics: The timing is a bit off but the action still engages when the trigger is engaged. Also, the nipples have wear consistent with having been struck directly by the hammer. We have not fired this pepperbox. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is a G.L. Richardson manufactured Improved Revolving Pistol which was manufactured in the mid-19th century. The gun’s markings indicate the gun was made by a Scottish gunsmith named G. L. Richardson of Liverpool and it has Birmingham proof marks. Unfortunately, beyond that there is little specific information on the gun or its maker. The gun uses the percussion ignition system which was invented in the 1820s and began to see wide-spread adoption in the 1830s. The system remained in use until the 1870s when breech loaded cartridge firearms made it largely obsolete. While the barrels have been refinished and the grips are moderately worn, otherwise the gun is well preserved with a strong silver finished frame. Mechanically the timing is a bit off and the nipples appear to be worn from being struck by the hammer, but the action does still engage. This is a great collectible for fans of pepperbox pistols and other historical firearms. Good luck on your bid!