Thomas Ketland & Co. London Tap Action Flintlock Pistol 43 Bores 1796-1816

This is a very nice condition Thomas Ketland & Co. two barrel Box-Lock Tap Action flintlock belt pistol in .43 Bore.
This T. Ketland & Co. two barrel tap action flintlock belt pistol features: (1) Brass frame and barrels. (2) Barrel are 3” long and are threaded onto the frame. The last 1/2” of the barrel muzzles have groove cut rifling. The eight groove rifling is not uniform and is inconsistent (see pics). The barrel bores vary and are .436-.438 inside. (3) Circular Tap action lever firing system. The rotating hook on left allows a priming charge to be held under the first shot. After firing the first shot the rotating pan allows the second shot to be rotated up into the ready position already primed with powder. (4) Solid black walnut grip. (5) Frame has Birmingham proofs on bottom (pics). (6) Left side frame is inscribed (T. / Ketland /& Co.) under a stand of flags. (7) Right side frame is inscribed (LONDON) under a stand of flags. (8) There is a number "18" on the bottom of the frame and bottom barrel. There is a copy of the “Ketland Three Generations of London Gun Makers” information noted above included.

The condition of this piece is VG to VG+ : (1) The all brass parts are VG+. The frame retains its original patina. (2) The barrel inside bores are excellent. The barrels appear to have been cleaned up at some point as they do not have the patina match of the frame. (3) The original blued steel metal parts are VG and have lost their color to more of a grey/silver color. (4) The hammer/sear engagement is strong and functions fine. (5) The tap action rolling prime pan is firm and very smooth. (6) The barrels are threaded so they will not interchange. (7) The grips are on solid as can be.