Description
This is probably one of the most interesting pistols we have ever had the pleasure to sell. As far as we can research this is a land pattern pistol in the manner of the Heavy dragoon pistol of the early 18th century. The form and mounts are very similar although more refined than the heavy dragoon. There is an absence of carving to the stock, which is a characteristic of the early heavy dragoon pistols of this period, however the pistols of the Royal Dragoons were plainer in decoration and very similar to the one in hand. The pistol itself is 17 inches overall with a 10 inch swamped barrel ( heavy dragoon pistols of this period had a 12 inch barrel ) a full walnut stock with regulation brass mounts. The lock shows Crown over GR with acceptance arrow and crown stamp, the tail of the lock stamped Jordan 1743. The pistol itself shows a large amount of ware and cracks to the wood. The rubbed brass escutcheon faintly showing what is left of the unit number. It is pictured next to a Farmer 1744 heavy dragoon pistol to give a good comparison. It was common place for officers to carry different arms to that of the troopers, so it is not unacceptable that a cavalry officer in this instance should be any different.
A very brief history of the Royal Dragoons;
The Royal Dragoons is was the longest serving heavy cavalry regiment in the British army. Being formed in 1661 and serving for three centuries before finally being amalgamated with the Royal horse guards to form the Blues and Royals in 1969. In 1751 their name was changed to the 1st Royal regiment of dragoons, seeing action in many conflicts. Naming just a handful as follows: 1743 the battle of Fontenoy, 1794 the Flanders campaign, 1811 the Peninsular war and 1815 the battle of Waterloo.
