19th Century Rifled Overcoat Percussion Cap Pistol Signed J Gilli
A quite plain, but nevertheless attractive full stocked overcoat pistol with brass furniture with the lockplate engraved J Gilli.
I believe that J Gilli is Joseph Gilli, a Swiss Gunmaker from Lucerne who operated until 1849.
The steelwork is in great condition with no sign of corrosion and still carrying much of its original colouration.
The flush fitting flat lock is free of any decoration except for the makers name, and the rifled heavy octagonal barrel is also free of engraving except for the number 1 at the breech, indicating that this was once one of a pair.
It has fore and rear sights and this combined with the heavy rifling would have made for an accurate firearm.
Given its diminutive size, the brass ramrod pipe, trigger guard and stepped flat buttcap take up most of the underside of this piece.
The stock is also in great condition with no splits or cracks and just the bruising that you would expect after approximately 200 years.
The mainspring is strong and the action is good in half and full positions, although it does catch slightly in the half position and there is no crisp click at full position.
A very tidy Swiss travelling pistol.
Barrel length 9.5cm, Overall length 21cm.
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
