Early 19th Century 40 Bore Pocket Pistol With A Sprung Bayonet
A nice example of a chunky flintlock pocket pistol with an under slung sprung bayonet.
With a top mounted sliding safety catch and a sprung sliding trigger guard to hold the bayonet in place.
On the left side within the oval cartouche, surrounded by a stand of arms is the makers name G & J Wallis and on the right hand side is the same with the word Hull engraved.
The steelwork is age stained grey and the slab sided one piece walnut grip is bruised, but has no damage.
The mainspring is strong, but you can feel that the notches in the sear for half and full positions are worn, although it does hold in both positions.
The bayonet spring that holds it locked in the open position has sapped, so the bayonet does not lock. However, the roller spring to engage the bayonet is very strong and it will flick forward with some speed when the trigger guard is pulled back.
George Wallis is listed (in the book "English Gunmakers" by De Witt Bailey and Douglas A Nie) from 1753-1803 and then his son George and John 1804-1822.
I believe this is the same George Wallis who is also known for the Great Arms Collection.
This collection was sold after the death of George Junior in 1833.
A great piece with clear engraving.
Barrel length 5.5cm, overall length 18.5cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
