This .54 caliber, smoothbore, flintlock pistol is one of approximately 18,000 Model 1836 pistols manufactured by Robert Johnson of Middletown, Connecticut between 1836 and 1844. The Model 1836 was widely considered to be the best designed and manufactured flintlock pistol. The pistol has an 8 1/2 inch round barrel with a brass front sight blade, swivel ramrod with button head and iron mountings. The barrel, ramrod, buttcap, barrel band and trigger guard are "bright". The lock plate, hammer, and tang were casehardened. The lock is marked "U.S. / R.JOHNSON / MIDDN CONN / 1841" below the brass pan. The left rear of the barrel is marked "US / JH / P" and the left flat and front of the trigger guard plate are marked with the letter "B". The left stock flat is marked with a oval "WAT" and "JCB" cartouches. The Model 1836 Flintlock Pistol was the standard issue handgun of the Mexican War and continued to see extensive use as converted to percussion in the Civil War.

Very fine. The metal is crisp and has been cleaned many years ago. The casehardened lock, frizzen, hammer and spring have a smooth mottled grayish brown patina, while the remaining parts remain bright. The stock is excellent with only a few scattered minor dings and handling marks, and crisp cartouches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.