The Highland warriors of Scotland carried distinctive arms of novel design. Their pistols, unlike those made elsewhere in Britain, were constructed entirely from metal, usually steel, and were engraved and often silver-inlaid with geometric and foliate ornament of Celtic inspiration. This pair, signed by the renowned gunmaker Campbell, of Doune, Perthshire, is a classic example of the type. Among the defining features are the scrolled "ram's-horn" butts, button-shaped triggers (without trigger guards) and prickers (to clean the touchhole), decorative pierced rosettes behind the head of the cock, and belt hooks mounted on the side opposite the locks.

Our pistols are also noteworthy for their American association. The grips are inlaid with silver plaques inscribed "Abr^m B. Embury / New York 1830," identifying them as having belonged to a member of a distinguished New York family. The pistols' unusually crisp condition testifies to their preservation as treasured heirlooms for almost two centuries.