The penknife-pistol was among the best-selling products of James Rodgers of Joseph Rodgers and Sons Ltd, a firm founded in 1682 and one of many Sheffield cutlers known primarily for making fine quality knives, blades and razors.

This weapon dates to 1840–1860 and comprises a percussion pocket-pistol with cow-horn plates (and integrated ball box), with two folding knives and two pairs of folding tweezers.