One of set of two pistols, reportedly belonging to Robert Burns

Description

Pistol, with the initials 'RB' roughly carved on the butt. The pistol belonged to Robert Burns and was used during his time as an Excise Officer.

The 2 pistols on display were used by Burns on his excise duties. His position as an exciseman was an exacting one and he travelled up to 200 miles a week on horseback in order to fulfill his duties. Robert carried these inscribed pistols when he worked as an Exciseman (a tax collector employed by the Crown) from 1789 until his death in 1796. The job was unpopular and, at times, dangerous. They cannot be used in rain or in damp weather as the powder needs to be dry in order to ignite.