A Good French & Indian War - American Revolutionary War Period British Military Style Heavy Dragoon Merchant Marine, Militia or Volunteer Unit Flintlock Pistol, R WATKIN, LONDON

A Good Antique French & Indian War - American Revolutionary War Period British Military Style Heavy Dragoon Merchant Marine, Militia or Volunteer Unit Flintlock Holster/Belt Pistol by; "R WATKIN", LONDON, c. 1730-1760. 12", .66 cal. (carbine bore) round steel barrel w/(2) London private proofs and an unidentified mark (most likely the barrel makers mark).  The pistol is in its original flintlock configuration.  The lock is maker signed "R WATKIN".  Brass furniture almost identical to the British military pattern 1730/1738 Land Service Pistol (excluding the butt cap).  The pistol retains the original steel belt hook.  The stock has old wood worm holes throughout but is stable with scratches and dings from years of handling and service.  Wood ramrod with brass tip (may be the original).  All steel surfaces exhibit salt & pepper rust pitting underneath a dark age patina.  19.5" overall length.  A large great looking holster/belt pistol in good mechanical working order.

Note: There are varying opinions on exactly when these pistols were produced and for what purpose.  The following is my opinion.  The overall form reflects all the traits of being made for military purposes.  I concur with Robert Brooker that these pistols were made for Militia/Volunteer units or for the Merchant Marine.  It is very possible that the maker R Watkin produced these pistols in hopes of a formal contract/purchase from the ordnance that never materialized.  There were many makers that made arms very similar to the ordnance approved military patterns to supply all the other needs outside the primary military and this pistol may be one of them.

Ref. p. 80.  British Military Pistols and Associated Edged Weapons 1603-1887.  By, Robert Brooker, c. 2016.

TTI-545421

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