Reasearch flint lock pistols?

[sweatervest]

Hi Guys I know it is tough without having the pieces in front of you but I am looking for anyone that might have some insight on what the attached pistols are and potentially what they are worth. A friend of mine inherited them when his father passed and we are trying to figure out what he has?

2013-january 001.jpg

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks
Jeff

[MikePal]

I sent the pic off to a friend of mine who knows quite a bit about theses types of guns....hope this helps some...

Hi Mike,They appear to be a pair of spur trigger flintlock muff pistols of about 1800. Most likely they are English but could be Belgian or European. Look for the proof marks. The trigger drops from the frame when the gun is cocked. The safety is located on top and, when at half with the frizzen closed, the safety is pushed forward to lock the and frizzen. The flask is a compartment flask which holds powder, ball, and caps. Does not suit a flintlock. The other tools don't look right and the box is not correct.

[GoldenLakePete]

They look to be "screw barrel" pistols. Notice the protrusions on the side of the barrel - a tool is used to screw off the barrel to load the pistol. Do a search on "screw barrel flintlock pistols".

No idea as to value. Really makes a difference what country they were made in. Are there any proof marks?

Do you know about the Canadian gun nutz site? There are some real experts on there who may be able to help you as to value. But you need better and more photos plus details as to any markings on the pistols and calibre, etc.

[jaycee]

They look to be "screw barrel" pistols. Notice the protrusions on the side of the barrel - a tool is used to screw off the barrel to load the pistol. Do a search on "screw barrel flintlock pistols".

No idea as to value. Really makes a difference what country they were made in. Are there any proof marks?

Do you know about the Canadian gun nutz site? There are some real experts on there who may be able to help you as to value. But you need better and more photos plus details as to any markings on the pistols and calibre, etc.

I think you are right on that GP, I have only seen one of those [single gun] and the tool to remove the barrel was similar to the tool on the left in the box, it had a recess in it to slide over the protrusion on the barrel to unscrew it .
The one that I have seen , was of "Germanic " origin.

[MikePal]

Some good info on these 'Muff Pistols"...

http://www.ctmuzzleloaders.com/antiq...muff_pist.html

[MikePal]

The fella that I had sent the pic too was in town today and he bought a few 'muff pistols' with him to show me.

Very cleverly designed guns, intricate locks and safeties. I was surprised at how small they were, but considering they were designed to be concealed and carried by women for personal protection, it does make sense.

Your friend has a neat find Jeff...