Were these pocket pistols used in the American War of 1812? With firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on August 3, 2022
Duration: 16:39

This video examines a pair of unique four-barrel flintlock pistols, identified as 'volley pistols,' featuring a box lock mechanism and an innovative safety system. The pistols are linked to Lieutenant Colonel Thomas B. Van Horn, an American officer who served in the War of 1812, with markings indicating the year 1812. The expert discusses the historical context, the maker Robert Wheeler, and the significance of these artifacts as fighting pistols for self-defense or close-quarters combat.

Quick Summary

These unique four-barrel 'volley pistols' feature a box lock mechanism and an innovative safety system. They belonged to Lieutenant Colonel Thomas B. Van Horn, an American officer in the War of 1812, and are considered fighting pistols for self-defense or close-quarters combat, with an effective range of approximately 10 meters.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Unique Flintlock Pistols
  2. 00:10Identifying the Box Lock Mechanism
  3. 01:18The Concept of Volley Pistols
  4. 02:51Innovative Flintlock Safety Feature
  5. 06:25Purpose of Pocket Pistols
  6. 08:36Examining Maker and Proof Marks
  7. 09:09Robert Wheeler: Birmingham Gunmaker
  8. 10:48The Most Important Marking: Officer's Identity
  9. 11:10Lieutenant Colonel Thomas B. Van Horn
  10. 11:34The Significance of the 1812 Date
  11. 12:16Thomas Van Horn's War of 1812 Service
  12. 12:29Battle of Brownstone (August 5, 1812)
  13. 14:02Battle of Maguaga Creek (August 9, 1812)
  14. 14:37Van Horn's Transfer and Promotion
  15. 15:23Conclusion: Significant Historical Pistols

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these pistols unique and what is their historical context?

These are unique four-barrel 'volley pistols' featuring a box lock mechanism, designed for simultaneous firing. They are historically significant as they belonged to Lieutenant Colonel Thomas B. Van Horn, an American officer who served in the War of 1812, with markings indicating the year 1812.

What are the key technical features of these volley pistols?

The pistols have a box lock mechanism and four barrels designed to fire simultaneously. A notable feature is an innovative safety mechanism that blocks the sear and hammer, also securing the pan cover to prevent priming powder loss.

Who was Robert Wheeler and what is the significance of the markings on these pistols?

Robert Wheeler was a Birmingham gunmaker active in the early 19th century. The pistols bear London proof marks and Wheeler's mark, indicating they were proofed in London. They are also inscribed with the name of Lt. Col. Thomas B. Van Horn and the year 1812.

What was the intended use of these volley pistols?

Given their multi-shot capability and design, these pistols are considered 'fighting pistols.' They were likely intended for self-defense during travel or for use in close-quarters combat, rather than for target practice, with an effective range of about 10 meters.

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