This is an example of a Flintlock 2nd Model horseman's pistol that was manufactured by the Virginia Manufactory in Richmond, Virginia in 1815. The pistol closely resembles the Harpers Ferry U.S. Model 1805 Flintlock Pistol. The Virginia Manufactory made an estimated 2044 2nd Model Flintlock Pistols between 1812 and 1815. The estimated 366 pistols made in 1815 had distinctive lock markings and are considered to be rare. The pistol has a bright-finished barrel, lock and ramrod with brass trigger guard, buttcap, side plate, ramrod tail pipe and barrel band. The wedge-fastened stock is oil-finished black walnut. The round, smoothbore, barrel is not fitted with front or rear sights and has a prominent under-rib with attached swivel and button-head ramrod. The lock plate is flat with beveled edges, a prominent tip and integral fenced pan. The reinforced hammer has a flat face and a notched hammer spur. The frizzen has a curved toe. The lock plate is stamped with the date "1815" in a vertical line behind the hammer and "RICHMOND" in an upward curve below the pan. These markings are found only on the 366 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory pistols made in 1815. The brass buttcap has the distinctive spurs and the trigger guard has a pointed front finial. The letter "V" is stamped three times on the inside of the trigger guard. The 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory pistols remained in state service until the Civil War; some examples were issued to cavalry regiments at the start of the war. The pistol is considered to be a secondary Confederate handgun.