John Tow succeeded to the business partnership between himself and Joseph Griffin in 1783 and is recorded at 10 New Bond Street, London until 1793. He was appointed Armourer to His Majesty’s Stables in 1784 and was a contractor to the East India Company from 1783 until 1795. He died in 1795 and his business was succeeded by Charles Grierson. Made in circa 1785, with octagonal to round brass barrel with belled muzzle, a manually operated bayonet fitted to the right side, engraved and signed “TOW LONDON” at the breech end, struck with London proof marks and maker’s mark of John Tow, and with border and scroll engraved iron tang. Flat border engraved lock signed “TOW” and with safety catch, beveled edge, and stepped tail. Figured walnut full-length stock with raised apron around the barrel tang. Brass furniture including trigger guard with acorn finial and engraved with a flower head on the bow, and buttplate engraved with rococo scrollwork on the tang. Horn tipped wooden ramrod. Gauge estimated.

Fine. Barrel with scattered minor age related storage and handling marks. Iron tang, bayonet, and lock with dark mottled grey patina. Brass mounts have slight softening to engraving; otherwise clear engraving overall. Stock is good with some scattered age related storage and handling marks, bruises and dents, and small chip on the left edge. Mechanically excellent.

Of similar form to “A”. Gauge estimated.

Fine with some scattered minor wear on the brass barrel and mounts, dark brown patina and light pitting on the bayonet, grey patina on the tang and lock, small dings on the lower edge of the latter, and distinct engraving. The stock is good and has numerous age related storage and handling marks (especially noticeable at the wrist), a repaired chip above the nose of the lock, split in the forend tip, and the right tip of the forearm chipped around the bayonet locking lug. Later ramrod. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.