Late 18th/Early 19th Century Converted Half Stocked Blunderbuss Pistol With Exquisite Decoration
Originally made as a flintlock pistol, this piece has been very nicely converted to percussion cap with a carved hammer to match the original highly decorated lock and a silvered scallop design around the nipple.
The flared octagonal to round barrel has a stunning damascus pattern with a plain band of steel spiralling along its length.
The brasswork is also highly decorated from its forend cap to the ornate steel and brass buttcap.
The stock itself is also carved around the grip to finish off the effect of this quality pistol.
Unfortunately and strangely there are no makers marks or signatures engraved on this piece that is very obviously continental, but given some its styling I am leaning towards a French or perhaps Spanish piece?
Although it has been handled a great deal, the decoration is still all clearly visible and has left the stock with a very smooth tactile feel.
There is a crack around the grip and another one between the ornate sideplate and the barrel.
The mainspring is weak, but the action is ok in half and full position.
Strangely there is no provision for a ramrod.
I can tell you no more about this pistol, other than it is an unusual and very beautiful example of the Gunsmiths skills.
Barrel length 15cm, Overall length 27.5cm.
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
