Pattern 1759 Light Dragoon pistol

Date1760

Artist/Maker Richard Edge

MediumIron, steel, walnut and brass

DimensionsOL: 15 1/8" Barrel: 9" Calibre: .67

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1955-188

DescriptionStandard light dragoon pistol with double bridle lock and inward curling cock spur; round barrel "turned" at breech; original stock with one original pipe; all mounts present and original; reproduction wood ramrod.
Label TextEuropean-styled heavy cavalry were not well suited to use in the vast, diverse terrain of North America. The Light Dragoon regiments, first raised during the 1750s, were. Both British and Loyalist light cavalry units campaigning in the Revolution were armed by the Crown with this well built pistol pattern. The mounted contingent of Tarleton's Legion was armed with only one pistol, as opposed to the pair normally carried by the British light dragoon.
MarkingsLock: engraved, crowned "GR" and crowned broad arrow ahead of cock; engraved "1760" and "EDGE" at tail. Interior of lock: "R E", , "C"; barrel: crowned "GR" over broad arrow; crowned, crossed sceptres once (all stamped); stamped "E" on sideplate flat.

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