RSAF Enfield Cavalry Percussion Pistol, .65 Caliber, 8-inch Octagonal Barrel, 1865-Dated Lock, British Victorian-Era Military
This antique British cavalry percussion pistol from the Royal Small Arms Factory (Enfield) features an 1865-dated lock with the crown over V.R cypher, clear British government property and Birmingham proof marks, and the classic service configuration of the Victorian era. Notable features include an 8-inch octagonal iron/steel barrel to the muzzle, captive swivel ramrod, and brass furniture throughout, making it a well-marked example of a government-inspected service pistol.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Smoothbore / No discernible rifling.
Specific Condition Notes: There are widespread scratches and blemishes across the metal and wood. Pitting and rust formation are present in multiple areas. The bore shows blemishing, and there is no discernible rifling (smoothbore). The lanyard ring is missing.
What’s Included
- RSAF Enfield Cavalry Percussion Pistol, .65 caliber
- Captive swivel ramrod
Built at Enfield and marked "ENFIELD" on the lockplate, this pistol carries the 1865 date beneath the crown over V.R, placing it firmly in the Victorian era. It uses a single-shot, muzzle-loading percussion action with an external hammer and simple service-type sights; rear sighting is of the basic service type typical for the pattern.
Government ownership and proofing are well documented on this example. The right lockplate and wood stock bear the Victoria Regina mark. A crown over Broad Arrow is present on the right lockplate and the left side of the barrel, and a crown over crossed scepters Birmingham proof appears on the left side of the barrel. WD War Department stamps and stock cartouches with V.R and inspector initials are also present. These marks indicate British government ownership and that the firearm went through and passed two-stage proof testing.
The pistol has an 8-inch octagonal iron/steel barrel to the muzzle and retains its captive swivel ramrod. Brass furniture includes the trigger guard, forend/nose cap, buttcap, and side-screw escutcheons, all typical of service pistols of the period.
The one-piece hardwood stock features a pronounced grip swell and sights configured for service use. Chambered in .65 caliber with a single-round capacity, this British-made piece represents a clear, proof-marked example of a Victorian-era cavalry percussion pistol.