An outgrowth and evolution of the "Howdah" pistols used as point defense weapons by big game hunters, Charles Lancaster's multi-barreled pistols used a pepperbox-style action in conjunction with large, man-stopping brass cased cartridges to deliver a rate of fire and striking power that was among the best available in it's day. Though never a standard issue weapon with the British colonial forces, many officers chose Lancasters over the standard issue revolvers due to these attributes. Silver blade front sight and fixed notch rear sight, with the top barrel flue marked "CHARLES LANCASTER. PATENT. 151. NEW BOND ST. LONDON", "476 C.F." in the left flue, "55" on the bottom and each barrel is marked on the sides with the London "crown/ GP" and "crown/ V" proofs and lion proofs. The breechblock is marked with a "V" proof at the rear of each barrel, "CHARLES LANCASTER PATENT" in a circle in the middle of the firing pin holes, "55" assembly number on the underside and the serial number on the trigger guard. The barrel latch is a visible hook on either side of the frame, controlled by a right handed thumb lever, and an ejector is automatically engaged by tipping the barrel, using a cam system similar to the one found on the later Webley revolvers. Attractively niter blued screws and trigger. Grips are checkered English burl walnut with a beautiful grain pattern, extending up to cover most of the frame sides, ending in a sharp bird's head butt with a lanyard swivel.

Near mint as factory refurbished, with 99% of the bright high polish presentation grade blue finish, showing a few minor handling marks and tiny areas of spotting on the metal, along with some minor tool marks around the screws. The front sight shows a dark patina, and the niter components show a strong fiery color. Grips are excellent, with one or two scratches, fine fit and beautiful grain. Mechanically excellent. As a working arm often taken into harm's way, Lancasters are scarce in any condition, and this piece is a superb example worthy of any collection of British or Colonial firearms.