Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely OTTOMAN flintlock holster pistol made to follow European lines, clearly having belonged to someone of significance being so well adorned. It has an ornately carved stock with, showing a very high level of artistry. The fittings are all engraved iron, and there is also some great engraving on the 9 1/2" barrel, which is octagonal close to the breech. There are some proof marks and touch marks as well, though they could just be simulated. The lock, side plate, and trigger guard also have some great engraving, and there are even engraved iron fittings on the faux ramrod carved into the stock.
What really sets this example apart is the fantastic butt cap, which has lots of embossed and inlaid silver designs on the iron. There is also a lot of wire inlay work on the grip just above the butt cap, which is possibly nickel or some other soft metal, which has now oxidized. There originally was an escutcheon on the back of the grip, though it has unfortunately been lost to time. Often referred to as a Mediterranean Pirate's Flintlock Pistol this example is way above that. The silver butt cap has the usual long ears, and the trigger guard goes almost all the way to the butt cap. The pistol measures 15 1/4" in over all length, about 4-5 inches shorter the length we typically see, probably intended for a somewhat smaller person.
Copying the western Style, the pistol displays a "faux" ramrod which is not intended for use, in this case as part of the the stock. The actual ramrod was usually carried on a leather thong carried around the neck, so that it could not be dropped during reloading at sea or on horseback.
The lock features a swan neck cock, and it is functional, however the main spring is a bit weak, so it does not snap forward very fast. There is also no half cock position on the tumbler, and the trigger spring also seems to be a bit weak.
Dating probably from the early 1800's this is spectacular and ready to display!!
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1790-1820
Caliber: .64" pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Overall Length: 15 1/4 inches
Barrel Length: 9 1/2 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded
NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.
