October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
Pistol itself is a Model 1842 by H. Aston, a standard configuration throughout except for the brass extra, which is slotted where the experimental shoulder stock attaches. Shoulder stock attaches and has a string released button on trigger guard strap. This was probably a Board of Ordinance developement for a precursor to the Model 1855 pistol carbine. Barrel stamped at breech "US WNP" lock marked "US H ASTON, MIDD. CONNECTICUT, 1849". Walnut shoulder stock with steel projection for attachment, brass yoke stamped "2", heavy brass buttplate stamped "2" and buttplate screws stamped "2". For more information on this model, see the American Society of Arms Collector's Bulletin Number 64, which includes an article by Luke Woods on these pistols. CONDITION: Barrel has minor pitting overall, lock is stained but very crisp, stock with remnants of inspector's cartouches and old varnish, but no major cracks. Unique shoulder stock in excellent condition with only minor marks retaining original raised grain. Given that the shoulder stock is serial number is "2", we must assume that at least two of these unique Aston carbine pistols were made. MZ
Caliber/Bore
.54 Smoothbore