"Make: French Chatellerault
Model: Model 1837
Serial Number: NSNV (No Serial Numbers Visible)
Year of Manufacture: 1837 (Both Pistols)
Caliber: .60 Caliber Smoothbore
Action Type: Single Shot Percussion Pistol, Muzzle Loaded
Markings: Pistol LSB#WY250125RP009: The lock plate is marked ""Mrre. Rle. de Tulle,"" the tang is marked ""M1837,"" and the right side of the chamber is marked ""1837.""
Pistol LSB#WY250125RP010: The lock plate is marked ""M.R.de Chatellerault,"" and the tang is marked ""M1837."" Both pistols exhibit standard French martial markings of the period.
Barrel Length: 6 3/4""
Sights / Optics: There are no sights on either pistol, which is correct and original for this model.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Both pistols have one-piece walnut stocks featuring lanyard loops integral to the pommel caps and sash hooks (belt hooks) installed on the left side of each pistol. Both stocks show scattered dings, handling marks, and areas of mild wear consistent with military service and age. Pistol LSB#WY250125RP010 has a few small surface cracks that do not affect the structural integrity or strength of the pistol. No significant structural damage is observed. Overall, the stock condition is very good for their age.
Type of Finish: Originally finished Blued with brass furniture.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are smooth and show mild age-related darkening and pitting, typical of antique smoothbore firearms of this period. There is no major erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate approximately 6/10 for age and usage.
Overall Condition: Both pistols retain approximately 15-20% of their original finish, with the majority worn down to an attractive aged patina. Metal surfaces have scattered spots of shallow pitting and oxidation, which is consistent with authentic military firearms of this era. Captured ramrods remain intact on both pistols. The markings are legible and clear. Overall, these pistols exhibit authentic age-related wear and possess significant historical charm.
Mechanics: Both pistols are in full functioning order, with strong hammer springs and reliable trigger actions. The captured ramrods operate as intended. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: Included with the pair is an original antique powder flask, appearing contemporaneous with the pistols and exhibiting age-appropriate wear, patina, and historical character. The flask complements the pistols nicely, adding value and historical context.
Our Assessment: This is an excellent and historically valuable pair of French Chatellerault Model 1837 percussion pistols, manufactured during an era when France was transitioning from flintlock to percussion ignition systems for military arms. Their markings—one from the famed arsenal at Tulle and the other clearly identified from Chatellerault—indicate their provenance and service origins, highlighting important French arsenals known for quality production during the early percussion era.
Both pistols reflect the ruggedness and simplicity characteristic of French military sidearms in the 1830s, featuring smoothbore barrels, robust walnut stocks, brass furniture, integral lanyard loops, and sash hooks (belt hooks) for convenient carry. Such pistols saw widespread use across various French military branches, including infantry, cavalry, and naval units. Their manageable size and powerful .60 caliber smoothbore make them distinctive representatives of early 19th-century military sidearms.
For collectors and historical arms enthusiasts, this pair offers significant appeal—not only because they retain matching military markings but also because the original powder flask adds authenticity and desirability. Items of this age are rarely found with accessories, further enhancing their value and historical interest. The small surface cracks present on pistol RP010 are typical for antique arms and do not detract from their strength or usability. These pistols represent a genuine opportunity to own well-documented French military percussion pistols with clear dates and arsenal provenance, making them worthy additions to any historical or martial collection.
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