Stocking & Company Single Action Pepperbox Pistol. ca. 1850

Description

One of the lesser-known makers of pepperbox pistols, Stocking & Company made .28 and .31 caliber pistols in the late 1840’s and early 1850’s. Like it’s better-known competitor Allen & Thurber, Stocking & Co, was located in Worcester, Massachusetts. This example in .28 caliber, with six-shot 4” ribbed barrel, stamped “STOCKING & CO. WORCESTER” and “WARRANTED CAST STEEL”; made without nipple shield. Bar hammer with long cocking spur, stamped “PATENT SECURED 1848” (weak). Integral nipples, as standard (one broken). Scroll-engraved frame. Two-piece bag grips with oval silver escutcheon. Blued finish, showing wear and dark plum-brown patina. Rear trigger guard screw broken. Shows great age and wear commensurate with use. Action functions normally, but is somewhat sloppy, as often found. Overall length 7 1/4”.