Pair J.&W. Richards London Flintlock Bayonet Pistols .44 Cal 3.25″ Antique

SOLD FOR: $1075

LSB#: 211112AT14, 211112AT15

Make: J.&W. Richards

Model: Flintlock Pistol Pair

Serial#: Not Serialized

Year of Manufacture: Early 1800s

Caliber/Gauge: .44 Caliber

Action Type: Muzzle-Loaded Flintlock Pistols

Markings: The pistols are marked the same. The left side of the lock is marked with a banner that reads “J&W RICHARDS”. Both sides of the lock have scroll engraving and there is a floral motif on the right side. The bottom of the barrel is marked with a crown over “CP” proof, “R / I&W”, and a crown over “V” proof.

Barrel Length: 3 1/4”

Sights/ Optics: There are no iron sights.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth wood. There are some scattered little nicks, scuffs, and compressions. One of the grips has some heavier wear around the bottom tang and there is what looks like a hairline crack. The other grip has what looks like a hairline crack at the back of the top tang. Overall, the grips rate in about Very Good-Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Bright

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are dark and have heavy oxidation and erosion.

Overall Condition: The pistols are bright and do not have a metal finish. There is a coat of light erosion, scabbing, discoloration from previous oxidation, and some scuffs. There is operational wear. The markings are clear. The screwheads are tool marked. Overall, the pistols are in Good condition as an Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire these guns. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This is a very cool pair of J&W Richards pistols from the early 1800s. They both have a compact 3 1/4″ barrel and a center frame mounted hammer with no sights as they were intended as close-range weapons where sights were not a requirement. The pistols each have a folding bayonet that locks under the sliding trigger guard. Most guns of the time were only single shot, so the addition of folding bayonets gave added defensive, or offensive, capabilities in close quarters where pistols like this were used. This is a badass pair of antiques and would be a nice addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!