Historical Background
This unique pistol is an excellent representation of the evolution of flintlocks. In the collecting world this flintlock is called two names: (1) a simplified snaphaunce or (2) an early dog lock. Both descriptions are in fact correct. To the learned collector, the elements of the snaphaunce are evident in the sear lug protruding though the lockplate behind the cock, and the use of a "buffer" to stop the descent of the cock when fired. The elements for the dog lock are obvious, namely the "dog" or lever holding the cock at the half, and the introduction of a frizzen (replacing the "battery" of the snaphaunce). Therefore this is truly a transitional piece in weapon's technology.
17th century English Cavalry
Pistol drill
This pistol saw extensive use during the 17th Century. It is most famous for its use by the Royalist and Parliamentarian cavalry of the English Civil War. Well documented are the many engagements of the war where cavalry played a key role in the fate of a battle. Many of the cavalry "Roundheads" sported a lobster style helmet and cuirass or chest plate, along with "buff" coat made of buff leather from deer, and adorning sashes. However this pistol was not exclusive to the borders of England. In North America, locks of this configuration have been found in 17th Century sites in North America. They likely found a place in the holsters of the cavalry of the colonies.
Royalist Roundhead at the
Royal Armouries. Note the pistol in its holster.
Specifications
With it's 16-inch, octagon-to-round barrel, this pistol must have been challenge to wield in the melée of battle. As with all of our flintlocks, this replica is made faithful to those of the period with tempered seamless modern steel (type:BS970 no.080M40) with a threaded breech plug. The lock is made with strong durable springs and has a case-hardened frizzen (hammer) that throws good sparks. We use a cyanide case-hardening factory process that makes sparking both more reliable and longer lasting. Presently no other musket provider uses this technique.
As with all our other flintlocks, the vent is not drilled so we can ship easily to our door throughout North America and to Europe and the UK. Aside from that they are exactly like the originals. A fine addition to any collection.
