A fine British made flintlock pistol by Adams, Birmingham. These type of pistols were made for the wealthy civilians and officers to protect themselves. Many gunmakers in Birmingham were active from the 17th to 19th century. This example can be dated around 1750. These type of pistols come in two varieties: the ‘Queen Anne’ barrel with a cannon-shaped barrel and the straight short barrel. This example has a removable barrel and is well known for its breech-loading method. A bullet with a cartouche of gunpowder was placed in between the barrel and chamber and then fired, pushing the bullet through the barrel.

Birmingham proof marks:

The maker marks on the barrel are typical Birmingham Proofmarks and are commonly recognized for their ovals with a crowned ‘P’ and a crowned ‘V’. These were general quality proofmarks for Birmingham gunmakers. Even provincial barrels, wich were locally made, gained their quality proof in Birmingham.

 

This example:

This fine example, owned by a notable man, is rather well made. The metalwork is hand-engraved with floral rocaille motives. The walnut handle has silver wire inlay and the pommel or ‘buttcap’ of the grip is decorated with a masqueron of a bearded man. The firing  mechanism is well functioning. The hammer can be cocked easily and the lock is movable as being new. The trigger function works excellent.

Condition: Excellent, some minor ware on the metalwork, further good and well functioning.

Dimensions: 21.3 x 8.3cm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright by Peter Andeweg – 2020