Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain
Representative period example of this weapon type; no surviving expedition artifact is shown.
Model 1799 Horseman’s Pistols
Corps Firearms • c. 1799–1803
In 1803, Lewis requisitioned a pair of horse pistols from the Schuylkill Arsenal in Philadelphia. These were large-caliber, single-shot flintlock pistols designed to be carried in saddle holsters. Using the same .69 caliber ball as the standard military musket simplified ammunition logistics.
Lewis is believed to have carried one of these during the July 27, 1806 confrontation with the Piegan Blackfeet, during which he fatally shot a warrior who was attempting to steal the expedition’s horses and rifles. This was the only lethal confrontation of the entire expedition.
Specifications
Caliber: .69 (smoothbore)
Barrel Length: ~8.5 inches
Overall Length: ~14.5 inches
Weight: ~3 lbs each
Lock: Flintlock
Quantity: 1 pair (2 pistols)
Effective Range: 15-25 yards
Where It Was Used
Journal entries mentioning this weapon along the expedition route.
NPS L&C National Historic Trail
Journal entry mentioning this weapon
November 16, 1804
Clark: November 16, 1804
Fort Mandan, North Dakota
August 29, 1805
Clark: August 29, 1805
Lemhi Valley, preparing to cross Bitterroots
November 4, 1805
Clark: November 4, 1805
Columbia River tidewater, approaching estuary
April 29, 1806
Lewis: April 29, 1806
Overland to Walla Walla, council with Yelleppit
April 29, 1806
Clark: April 29, 1806
Overland to Walla Walla, council with Yelleppit
July 27, 1806
William Clark: July 27, 1806
Yellowstone River near present-day Miles City
Showing 6 of 7 journal entries that mention this weapon.
