Original items. Only One Pair Available. This is a fantastic set of very nice French style double barrel pinfire pistols, most likely made in Belgium or else where in Europe just before the U.S. Civil War. The sides of the barrel assemblies are covered with markings, which the years have unfortunately made faint, however we can definitely make out (2B) CAL 9 on one of the pistols, for 2 smoothbore barrels in 9mm Lefaucheux "Pinfire" cartridges. The other markings look to be possibly arsenal markings, which we do not recognize unfortunately, however we can see that one pistol is marked on the barrel and frame with serial 08067, while the other is marked 08157.

The Pinfire system was the earliest form of "Cartridge" developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860's regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced. Never as popular as might have been expected and by 1870 quite obsolete.

These pistols are fitted with lovely French style fluted grips, and measure 8 3/4 inches in overall length, with 4 1/2 inch double barrel assemblies. Both are fitted with lanyard rings, so that they will not fall to the ground when dropped. Additionally, both are fitted with 3 3/4 inch long fold out bayonets, which would make them great as self defense pistols during the mid-Victorian age. They are not spring actuated as some are, as these appear to be more utilitarian examples, without any fancy engraving. The iron frames do have some simple cross-hatching on the sides of the box locks.

Both hammers on both pistols function correctly, and at full cock the “hidden” triggers fold out, allowing firing. After this the triggers correctly lock back closed. Pushing the left side release button allows the barrel to tip up, putting the two pinfire chambers into the reloading position. The hammers must me in the half cock position for the breech to open.

Condition of both pistols is very good, showing wear from age and cleaning. It's seldom that we get such nice examples of these early cartridge pistols, especially two of the same kind.

Ideal for any overcoat or uniform pocket, in working order and nice matured condition. A great antique pair of pistols dating to approximately 1850 and therefore pre U.S. Civil War. Ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: 9mm Lefaucheux
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 8 3/4 inches
Barrel Length: 4 1/2 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: Single Shot - Two Barrels

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.