Pedersoli Howdah Hunter Pistol

With twin barrels, the big-bore Pedersoli Howdah Hunter Pistol was popular with Europeans exploring the vast jungles of India and Burma in the mid-1800s. On a typical excursion, explorers and soldiers were part of an elephant caravan. Riding on a howdah (the basket perched atop an elephant) may look safe in today's world, but a century ago danger was imminent. Tigers could scale the side of a slow-moving elephant in the blink of an eye. To combat surprise attacks, the Howdah-style side-by-side pistol was created. 2 cavernous 20-ga. smoothbore barrels can be loaded with buckshot, a single slug, or the devastating "buck and ball"-load common in big-bore muzzleloaders used on dangerous game. Squeeze one of the triggers, and you'll appreciate the hand-conforming checkered walnut grip and the recoil-soaking end-cap counterweight. Its case-hardened lockplates are engraved with detailed wild animal scenes. Optional shoulder stock also available.

• Twin-barrel design
• Big-bore pistol was popular in the 1800s
• Compatible with buckshot, slugs, or buck-and-ball loads
• Checkered walnut grip
• End-cap counterweight soaks up recoil
• Engraved, case-hardened lockplates