Crickmay Portsmouth Percussion Muff Pistols .45 Cal 2 5/8″ Twist Barrels
SOLD FOR: $1,190.00
LSB#: LSB250731KK007 & LSB250731KK008
Make: Continental (Liège) manufacture, retailed by Crickmay, Portsh. (engraved on lockplates)
Model: Turn-off removable-barrel percussion muff pistol, matched pair
Serial Number: Unmarked / no serials visible
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1840–1860 (mid-19th century, Liège production for the English trade)
Caliber: .45 Ball (measures approximately .45)
Action Type: Single shot, percussion cap ignition; boxlock with folding trigger and exposed hammer (folding trigger deploys when cocked)
Markings: Both receivers are engraved “CRICKMAY / PORTS H.” The undersides and top flats of the barrels show continental proof/acceptance punches consistent with Liège—crowned ELG-style punches and a crowned device. These proof marks, combined with the threaded turn-off barrel fittings, indicate Belgian (Liège) manufacture for export and retailing under the Crickmay name.
Barrel Length: 2 5/8″ (removable, hex/octagonal turn-off barrels)
Overall Length: Approximately 7.5″
Sights/Optics: Small beaded front sight; raised sighting boss on the top flat ahead of the lock to register with the folding trigger for close-range sighting.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition: Walnut bag grips with checkering and inset diamond escutcheons. The checkering is worn in places but remains mostly sharp; grips retain attractive age patina and show period handling wear and small dents consistent with use and storage.
Type of Finish: The frames and furniture appear to be constructed of German silver (nickel alloy), displaying a soft silvery patina that was originally left bright. The barrels are finished in the white, consistent with their continental origin and mid-19th century production. The locks and triggers were originally blued, though today only the triggers retain visible blue finish, the remainder having toned to gray with light frosting from age. The overall presentation is that of aged but well-preserved antique finish, showing oxidation and scattered erosion consistent with long-term storage and black powder exposure.
Finish Originality: All finishes appear original, with authentic period metal tones and no evidence of modern refinish or buffing. The German silver frames remain naturally patinated, the barrels retain their original bright steel appearance, and the surviving blue on the triggers matches the expected treatment for fine percussion pistols of the period.
Bore Condition: The bores are serviceable and show defined rifling in places but also exhibit internal corrosion/pitting and heavy fouling in sections. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 8/10 for this type and condition.
Mechanics: The folding triggers deploy and stow correctly with good tension. Hammers engage and hold at full- and half-cock positions properly; half-cock serves as the safety and holds the hammer clear of the nipple when engaged. The removable barrels thread and seat correctly into the receivers. Overall the actions function as intended for percussion muff pistols of this era. We did not fire these pistols. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: Two removable turn-off barrels (one for each pistol) shown; no additional accessories included.
Condition Summary: Matched pair of antique percussion muff pistols with Liège proof marks and Crickmay retail name on the locks. Barrels and flats show notable erosion/corrosion and pitting consistent with heavy black-powder service and age; the metal on receivers and locks remains largely intact with attractive engraved panels and light handling wear. Grips are sound, checkering mostly sharp though worn in places. Bores show fouling and internal pitting in places but retain definition—rated 8/10. Mechanically complete and functioning as percussion pistols of their type.
Our Assessment: These matched, removable-barrel muff pistols are a classic mid-19th century example of Liège production supplied to the British trade and retailed under the Crickmay name. They present well as a pair—matching furniture, identical proofing, and intact folding-trigger boxlock mechanisms make them an appealing lot for a collector of small pocket pistols or a dealer assembling a themed group.
These pistols will benefit from a careful mechanical/tubular cleaning and sympathetic conservation of the pitted barrel flats to stabilize the metal while retaining original finish where present. They are an excellent historic pair showing honest use and service life; as presented they are attractive display pieces that also retain full percussion function for the informed collector. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to look at the item’s condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
