Double-barrelled percussion pistol, Scinde Irregular Horse, 1853

Manufactured by C P Swinburn and Son, locks dated 1853.

Firearms of this type use percussion caps, small cylinders containing a shock-sensitive explosive substance. Positioned at the rear of the barrel, when struck by the weapon's hammer, the charge within the cap ignites, propelling the ball or bullet through the barrel. The percussion cap was introduced in the 1820s and provided firearms with greater reliability, particularly in inclement weather conditions which might have previously dampened exposed powder.