Original 18th Century British Brass Barrel Flintlock Pistol Pistol by Grice with Engraved Brass Fittings - Circa 1770

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a lovely brass barreled private purchase flintlock pistol, looking very much like a scaled down and more decorated version of the dragoon pistols of the time. It is all brass mounted, with engraving on virtually every part, showing a very high level of artistry. The pistol features a "long-eared" butt cap and fantastic perforated embossed lock side plate, which shows stands of arms and other military motifs. There are raised carved areas around the lock and side plate, as well as a "shell" type carving around the barrel tang.

The pistol even has a brass lock plate and flash pan, and is marked by maker GRICE, almost certainly for WILLIAM GRICE, who worked in London from 1740 to 1780. The half-octagon cannon style barrel is marked on the top with LONDON, and the left facet bears with two CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS markings, for Pre-1813 inspection at the Ordnance Proof house on Tower Wharf close to the Tower of London. This mark was only used on "private" arms, not military issued examples.

The pistol has a 7 1/4" 0.60" bore barrel, with an overall length of 13 1/8 inches, and features TWO screws behind the cock instead of one, a style changed between 1757 and 1762 that indicated the use of a longer sear spring. It also has a "Bridled" flash pan, introduced to help give additional support to the frizzen. The lock functions, but will fire at both half and full cock due to wear on the tumbler or sear. The stock is in very good shape, showing wear consistent with use in service, and has a lovely color. We do not see any wood missing, though there are some repaired cracks near the muzzle, as well as some near the front of the lock plate. There is a lovely brass fitted wooden ramrod under the barrel, which looks to be original.

In very nice condition showing some use but just perfect for its age of 250+ years. A lovely example of a brass flintlock pistol by a known maker, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1770
Caliber: .60" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 7 1/4 inches
Overall Length: 13 1/8 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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