Late 18th/Early 19th Century English Flintlock Tap Action Pistol With Folding Bayonet Signed Gill, Richmond.
With much of its original blued case hardening remaining, very fine engraving and white metal (silver) stud and wire inlay, this is a top quality pistol in lovely condition.
The body is profusely engraved with rope border work, sunburst and Stand of Arms designs with an oval cartouche on each side, one signed "Gill", the other with "Richmond". Even the frizen is nicely engraved.
The bevel edged slab sided one piece walnut grip has a rich dark colour and very few blemishes. It is also inlaid with silver (white metal) along the bevelled edge and all down the spine of the grip.
In contrast the barrels are completely free of decoration and proof marks and much of their original browning has worn off. Being the business end of this piece I am not really surprised, although following the condition of the rest of the pistol, both barrels are free of pitting and visible corrosion and the sprung bayonet still operates and locks exactly as it was designed to, with the trigger guard sliding smoothly backwards to release the blade.
Proceed with caution with the bayonet as the spring is very strong and if not restrained the blade will snap forward with no small amount of energy and speed.
The mainspring is strong and the action in both half and full position is crisp and smooth.
The tap action, frizen and top mounted safety catch also all operate smoothly.
A top quality pistol in great condition.
Barrel lengths 7.5cm, Overall length 20.5cm.
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
