Ref 2219. A fine pair of English percussion duelling pistols by Jas Wilkinson of Circa 1840. .54 Muzzleloader

Largest selection of genuine antique weapons for sale in UK. See our website andrewbottomley.com. Ref 2219. A fine pair of English percussion single barrelled duelling pistols by James Wilkinson of London. Circa 1840. The 9 inch octagonal barrels engraved with the maker name Jas. Wilkinson & Sons London, Gunmakers to his Majesty. The lock-plates engraved with the makers name, Jas Wilkinson & Son. Gold inlay two lines at the breeches. Each pistol fitted with a front and rear sight. Silver escutcheons each engraved with a fruit tree inlaid to the wrists. Finely chequered grips. Engraved Spur trigger guards. Iron ramrod pipes. Both ramrods with a screw worm fitted to the ends. The horn tip is missing from one of the wooden ramrods. Approx .54 calibre. Overall lengths 14 inches. A duelling pistol is a pistol that was usually manufactured in pairs to be used in a duel, during the era when duels were customary. Duelling pistols are single-shot flintlock or percussion pistols which fire a lead ball. Duels between men erupted because of political disagreements, family feuds, competition for the affections of women, and just about any other issue that two men of means might quarrel over. Military officers and politicians duelled frequently. In fact, duelling among military officers was a serious issue because it robbed their respective governments of leaders for often absurd and petty disagreements. Posting a man to get him to challenge you was fairly common. This entailed taking an advertisement in the local press insulting your adversary. Liar, poltroon, coward, and scoundrel were popular affronts and were often strung together. A gentleman could hardly ignore the attack since refusing to challenge the offender was seen as demonstrating cowardice and could destroy his reputation. Actions in good working order. In good condition overall with a few minor scratches. A good example of a fine pair of percussion duelling pistols by a renowned maker. Ref 2219. This is an obsolete antique item and is sold as a collectors item only. No Licence is required in the United Kingdom. If you wish to purchase this item please visit our website andrewbottomley.com where you can pay by credit/debit card or bank transfer. Established 1968.