Pistol & case, blunderbuss pistol

Percussion firearms were muzzle-loading weapons developed in the early 19th century. The percussion firing mechanism superceded the old 'flintlock' ignition system. On a percussion weapon, the hammer struck a detonating cap containing explosive chemicals, which covered a nipple at the rear end of the gun barrel. This would create a spark to ignite the main charge inside and fire the bullet. This feature made percussion firearms more reliable than flintlocks which could misfire in poor weather if they got wet. Percussion technology revolutionised the gunmaking trade and led directly to the invention of modern cartridge bullets which have a built-in ignition system.

This pair of pistols was manufactured by Charles Moore, a prestigious London gunmaker with retail outlets in Paris. His trade card bears the motto 'Shoot strong and close'. Moore was a contractor to St James's Place, near his shop, and Hampton Court. He was also appointed Gunmaker-in-Ordinary to William IV in 1836. The pistols feature decorative silver butt caps in the form of lion heads. The lock plates and trigger guards feature scrolling floral patterns. The pistols bear the serial number '2080' on their trigger guards.