Early 18th Century .72" Calibre Belgian Full Stocked Flintlock Holster Pistol With The Lock Engraved "Claude Niquet a Liege"
An early and handsome piece by quality Gunmaker Claude Niquet who was born in 1692 and passed away in 1764. He traded on the Pont d'Ille (Island Bridge) and had 3 children Elizabeth, Claude Arnold (who became a Vicar) and Jean Claude who takes over from his Father until the early 19th Century.
This substantial piece is full stocked with brass furniture and a heavy all steel ramrod.
The lock is bevelled and it is on this edge that is engraved the makers name and location "Claude Niquet a Liege".
The mainspring is strong and the action is both smooth and crisp in half and full position.
The steelwork has been treated to give it a dark finish and time has added to this patina.
The brasswork also has a dark unpolished patina which has worn on the high spots.
The walnut stock is in great shape with only a chip in front of the frizen spring and a very small crack in the forestock, and given its age, very little bruising. It has been carved around the ramrod, lock and barrel tang.
The front of the trigger guard is a little loose and the top jaw screw has a bend in it, but given its 300+ years of age I'd say it has done very well indeed.
Barrel length 33.5cm, Overall length 52.5cm.
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
