*British, Georgian c1796, New Land Pattern Cavalry Pistol, Regimental markings – Warwickshire Yeomanry (WYC K 13), Obsolete Calibre*
Marked on Lock – Tower, Crown over GR (George Rex – George III 1760-1820) and Crown cypher with a war arrow.
Marked on Barrel – Two proof marks. Crown Cypher over War Arrow and Crown over Crossed sceptres – together known as The Kings Proof mark – consisting of both a proof mark and view mark. Introduced during the reign of Queen Anne from c1710 onwards.
Marked on trigger guard – WYC K 13 for Warwickshire Yeomanry
This Georgian New Land Pattern cavalry pistol features an 8.5-inch barrel, brass mounts, and a captive steel ramrod, bearing clear Tower markings on the lock and a unit-marked trigger guard, likely indicating ‘WYC-K-13’ for Warwickshire Yeomanry Cavalry.
Introduced in 1796 and fully in production by 1802, the New Land Pattern pistol, designated for land use rather than naval, originated from a design developed for the East India Company’s private army. Notable improvements included the addition of a swivel ramrod, significantly enhancing loading while on horseback. Many officers opted to procure their own firearms from gunsmiths. Despite their popularity, these pistols were notorious for their short range and poor accuracy, especially when fired from a moving horse, leading many British troopers to favor swords in combat.
The Warwickshire Yeomanry, established in 1794, evolved from the Gentlemen and Yeomanry of Warwickshire, organized into the Warwickshire Regiment of Yeomanry Cavalry in 1796. Over the years, the regiment expanded, adding additional troops to its roster. Serving as cavalry and machine gunners in the First World War and as cavalry and an armored regiment in the Second World War, the regiment was amalgamated into the Queen’s Own Warwickshire and Worcestershire Yeomanry in 1956.
The “Tower” mark, synonymous with the Tower of London, served as a storage site for arms during the flintlock and percussion periods. While arms were not manufactured at the Tower, contractors produced the various components, which were then inspected upon delivery. Locks, delivered assembled but unhardened, underwent rigorous inspection before being stamped with the word “Tower” after hardening. Musket assembly occurred as needed, with surplus parts stored for future use, sometimes for years.
*Condition*
Extremely crisp action with a strong spring. In very good overall condition. Excellent patina to the wood and the bumps and dents commensurate with age and service. An excellent example of this scarce military pistol. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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