A Mid To Late 18th Century Short Carbine Of 0.68" Calibre Full Stocked In Walnut
A very short and handsome full stocked, round barrelled carbine with steel furniture that is very utilitarian in its decoration.
I've had a hard time trying to piece together its identity and these are my thoughts:-
Despite the carving to the walnut around the tang looking continental, this was also in fashion in Britain in the mid 18th Century. Coupled with the single line engraving terminating in a teardrop (which I believe is British in style), I think this is a British piece.
Given the large calibre very short barrel, I think this may be a Coach or Carriage Gun carried for self protection on the roads, which were particularly dangerous during that time.
Back to the piece itself.
The steelwork is in good condition with a clean finish with some staining but very little corrosion or damage. The exception to this is the swan neck cock which has a crack running through the neck.
The barrel has very few stamps, except for the letter Y, and what I think is Crowned R3 and below that the letter C.
It has a brass bead foresight and a wooden ramrod slung underneath with a brass tip.
The walnut full stock is polished and also in good condition with fine carving around the barrel tang terminating in a shell or fan design. Below this at the shoulder is a large steel blank escutcheon.
Finally the mechanics of this interesting firearm. The mainspring is strong and the action is crisp in both half and full position with the frizen being equally as crisp, with its spring being very strong.
An unusual and handsome piece.
Barrel length 43cm, Overall length 81cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
