EW Bailey Saw-Handle Single Set-Trigger .52 Cal Percussion Pistol, Antique
SOLD FOR: $1125
LSB#: 210721TS69
Make: E.W. Bailey
Model: Saw Handle Pistol
Serial Number: The barrel is marked “439” and “D109”, we do not know if either are serial numbers or simply inventory/batch numbers.
Year of Manufacture: 19th Century Antique
Caliber: Approximately .52 Caliber Ball
Action Type: Single Shot, Percussion Pistol with Single Set-Trigger, Hammer Safety & Captured Pivoting Ramrod.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “LONDON”. The bottom-left of the barrel has two punch-marks, two British proof marks, “439” and “D109”. The top of the breech-plug and breech lug, lockplate, hammer, guard and grip cap have decorative engraving. The lockplate is marked “EW BAILEY” at the top-rear. There are two silver or platinum bands around the rear of the barrel.
Barrel Length: 9 1/2”, Octagonal
Sights / Optics: There is a bead at the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a notch integral to the breech-lug.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is saw-handle type one piece hand checkered wood with german silver nosecap, guard, wedge escutcheons, grip cap and thumbplate in the top of the saw-handle extension. The grip cap has a trapdoor over a small storage compartment in the butt. The stock has scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. There are a couple of minor losses and tool marks at the lockplate screw on the left of the stock with a repaired crack across the screw hole. There are tool marks at the rear lockplate screw on the right. The checkering is generally well defined. Overall, the stock is in Good-plus condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore has scattered light erosion, but is generally fairly smooth.
Overall Condition: The metal surfaces show scattered discoloration from oxidation and minor erosion. There is some more notable erosion around the nipple. There are some scattered nicks, scuffs and handling marks. The screw heads are tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are worn, but legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fair-Good condition as Antique (see Mechanics).
Mechanics: The hammer tends to catch at half cock when the trigger is pulled. When the safety is engaged, if the trigger is pulled, the sear will trip, requiring the hammer to be pulled back slightly to disengage the safety. Otherwise, the action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This antique British percussion pistol was made by E.W. Bailey, about whom we could find little information, but it has some very interesting design features. It has a captured swivel ramrod, hammer safety and a single set-trigger. The hammer tends to catch at half-cock when the trigger is pulled, but the pistol is in otherwise good shape. The mix of features makes this pistol well worth restoring for collection and display, the perfect winter project. Please see our photos and good luck!