In researching George Daw mentioned by archer in his post on his howdah pistol, I came across an interesting connection. John Jacobs, who made rifles, both single and doubles that fired a four groove bullet.
http://www.brettschulte.net/CWBlog/2...e-proposition/
This bullet was designed to explode on impact.
Though the bullet was made to take out artillery at 1400 yards (max range), an exploding bullet from a howdah pistols would seem a good idea to put the "quietus" on an angry tiger in your howdah! At least it would sound good in "drawing room" conversations!
"Eh, fortunately I was able to pull my Howdah pistol and give the blighter both barrels of exploding Jacobs bullets! Turned him into the rug you see on the floor beside me. Jolly good, what?"
Jacobs rifles were designed as long range guns, used by sharpshooters, I guess a pistol could be made as well.
http://www.brettschulte.net/CWBlog/2...-jacobs-rifle/
Note the similarities between the picture of the rifling in the muzzle of Jacob's double and my howdah pistol?
The seller said he never had my pistol apart. I am eager to get it and see what I can find as far as maker's and proof marks.