Highland pistol

A term describing the Highland pistol in this ad from 1755 puzzles me.

The Pennsylvania Gazette
May 29, 1755
THIRTY POUNDS reward..... Upon the 17th of May the above Thomas Douglas deserted from Lieutenant Bayly, and robb’d him of a considerable sum; a fusee, the maker’s name mark on it, Timothy Hughes; and a side Highland pistol, the maker’s name on it, John Campbell; and also a soldier of his knapsack, and what belong to him.

I know what a Highland pistol is, but what does the term 'side' mean in describing it?

Spence

Maybe the term means sidearm, as opposed to one carried in a pommel holster. I have a Highlander pistol. I think it has a belt hook on it... Maybe I should get it out and look to confirm that. :hmm:

Hi,
Highland pistols had belt hooks and they were carried on the side either hooked on a belt or sash. John Campbell was a well known maker from Doune.

dave

Cool, Dave!

:applause: