Prussian M1850 Percussion Cavalry Pistol

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	Weapon: Prussian M1850 Percussion Cavalry Pistol Type: Muzzle-Loading Pistol Country of Origin: Germany Year Adopted: 1850 Caliber: 15mm Action: Percussion Overall Length (mm): 345.0 Weight (kg): 1.00 Effective Range (m): 30

The Prussian M1850 Percussion Cavalry Pistol was a single-shot muzzle-loading firearm designed for use by cavalry units in the mid-19th century. This pistol was constructed with a robust iron barrel and a walnut stock, combining durability with functionality. It utilized a percussion lock mechanism, which was a significant improvement over the earlier flintlock systems, providing greater reliability in adverse weather conditions. The M1850 featured a smoothbore barrel, as rifled pistols were not yet widely adopted for cavalry sidearms, and it was chambered to fire .70 caliber round balls.

Manufactured primarily in Prussian state arsenals, the M1850 saw widespread production, with estimates suggesting tens of thousands were made to equip cavalry units across the Kingdom of Prussia. This pistol served as a secondary weapon for cavalry troopers, complementing their sabers and carbines. Despite its single-shot capacity, it was a formidable weapon at close range. The M1850 remained in service through the 1850s and early 1860s, though it began to be phased out as breech-loading and revolver technologies advanced, providing greater firepower and ease of reloading.

The Prussian M1850 Percussion Cavalry Pistol is historically significant as a representation of the transitional period in firearms technology during the 19th century. While it did not gain the fame of later repeating pistols or revolvers, it played a critical role in arming Prussian cavalry during key years of military reform. Today, surviving examples are sought after by collectors, and they provide valuable insights into the evolution of military sidearms prior to the widespread adoption of cartridge-based systems.