This is an example of a U.S. contract Model 1836 Pistol manufactured by Robert Johnson of Middletown, Connecticut. The pistol was converted from flintlock to percussion ignition and fitted with very rare self-priming hammer invented and patented by George W.B. Gedney of New York City on March 15, 1859. The Gedney hammer contains a small primer magazine and a lever which advances the primer when the hammer is cocked. The pistol has the Model 1836 swivel ramrod with button head and one-piece barrel band and side plate. The barrel has a brass front sight blade. An oval rear sight is located on the barrel tang. The pistol has an iron trigger guard and iron backstrap with integral buttcap. The lock plate is flat with beveled edges ahead of the hammer and rounded behind it. The brass flash pan has been milled away and replaced with a percussion nipple with drum type bolster. The flintlock hammer has been replaced by the unique Gedney self-priming hammer. The side of the hammer is marked: "MC PRIMING CO./NEW-YORK" and the hammer spur is marked: "PAT. MARCH 15, 1859". The lock plate is stamped: "U.S./R. JOHNSON/MIDDn CONN./1842" in four lines in front of the hammer. The top of the barrel is stamped: "U.S./JCB/P" and a small "H" sub-inspector's mark is stamped on the left barrel flat. The left stock flat is stamped with the Ordnance Sub-Inspector's encircled script initials "JH" and the Ordnance Final Inspector's encircled, script initials "WAT". Small "H" sub-inspector's marks are stamped on most components. The barrel, lock, hammer and iron furniture is 'National Armory Bright'. The black walnut stock has an oil finish. The Ordnance Department apparently purchased a small number of Gedney Self-Priming Hammers and installed them on Model 1836 Pistols for testing and evaluation. Surviving examples of these pistols are very rare.

Fine. The barrel, ramrod, side plate/ barrel band, backstrap butt cap and trigger guard all have the original bright finish. The casehardened lock plate has been polished bright. The bolster and hammer have a bright finish. The surface of the barrel is smooth and free from pitting. There is no flash pitting on the nipple, bolster, hammer or lock plate. The barrel and lock plate markings are sharp. The patent markings on the hammer are light but remain legible. The stock is in fine condition with crisp cartouche inspection marks. Wear is limited to minor handling and storage marks. This is a unique example of a U.S. Model 1836 pistol made to accept the very rare Gedney Self-Priming Hammer.