Late 18th Century/Early 19th Century English Tap Action Pistol Signed P Bond London
With a simple engraved border and cartouches with P Bond on the left side and London on the right side.
The unnumbered barrels have engraved muzzle decoration and there are clear London Proof Marks.
The tap operates as it should, but its quite tight.
The action snaps into half and full position correctly, but the mainspring feels very weak and the sliding safety catch is currently seized as is the lower barrel.
Both barrels unscrew correctly, although the bottom barrel is tight.
Overall the metalwork is in good condition with no pitting, but there are a few "dinks" and it has a stained patina.
The one piece walnut grip is in great shape with only a few minor bruises. It contains a large shield shaped escutcheon with the letter K engraved upon it.
I have found some conflicting information on Philip Bond
Version 1 ;
William Bond started the family business of Gunmakers in London until 1776, when Philip had a shop at 45 Cornhill until 1800.
Version 2;
Edward Bond was Master of the Gunmakers Company in 1780 and had a business at 59 Lombard Street 1774-1794. His son Philip Bond took over his fathers business at the above address until 1810, but also had a Gunmakers business at 45 Cornhill from 1800-1816.
I shall leave it to you sleuths to discover the truth of the matter!
A handsome flintlock pistol.
Barrel lengths 6cm, overall lengths 19cm.
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.
