What is a turn-off flintlock pistol?

A turn-off flintlock pistol features a screw-barrel mechanism that allows the barrel to be detached at the breech for loading, providing a tighter bullet fit and higher velocity in a compact size commonly carried for personal defence in the 18th century.

What materials were traditionally used in Georgian flintlock pistols?

Pistols from this period were typically constructed using cast brass or iron for the barrels and frames, tempered steel for the firing mechanisms, and hand-carved dense walnut for the stocks.

How can authentic 18th-century flintlock pistols be identified?

Authenticity is indicated by maker signatures engraved on the frame or barrel, period proof marks, hand-carved wood joinery, genuine aged patina on brass and steel, and original hand-forged lock components.

How are antique firearms styled in a modern interior?

Antique firearms are commonly displayed inside custom velvet-lined presentation cases, mounted within wall-hung shadow boxes, or positioned on acrylic stands inside glass-fronted cabinets and library shelving.

How should historic brass and steel firearms be maintained?

Maintenance requires keeping items in a stable humidity environment, applying microcrystalline wax to wood and metal surfaces to prevent oxidation, and avoiding abrasive polishing compounds that remove natural historic patina.

for sale €2,574 $2,794

£2,200

Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

Sellingantiques Verified Since Nov 2020

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We specialise in flintlock pistols, muskets, clocks & watches

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Antique Militaria Collectibles

Id #SA1153117

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Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

18th century

For Sale by Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

Description

Each pistol with three-stage cannon-form barrels in copper alloy, bearing London proof marks and the barrelsmith’s mark of John Rimes, a known gunmaker active in Wapping from the 1740s. The border-engraved breeches are engraved with martial trophies above the steel springs, while the rounded lockplates are engraved "London" beneath. The tangs and cocks are finely engraved, and each pistol, engraved with a floral motif on the bow.

Each pistol retains its original sliding trigger-guard safety catch, a feature typically reserved for higher-grade Queen Anne style pistols. The trigger guard slides forward to block the trigger, preventing discharge, and can be returned to the rear firing position—a desirable element for collectors.

Mounted with rounded figured walnut butts, each with silver butt caps, engraved en suite (some wear consistent with age). The stocks have been repolished and both stocks show signs of old repairs, now stable. A well-presented and attractive pair for display or collection.

John Rimes was a respected gunmaker recorded at 66 Bell Dock, Wapping, London, and supplied firearms to the East India Company in 1772. His work is well-regarded for its elegant detailing and solid craftsmanship.

The use of brass (technically copper alloy) barrels in Rimes’s pistols reflects both practical utility and aesthetic appeal. Unlike steel, brass is non-ferrous—it does not rust—making it especially suited for weapons exposed to humid or maritime climates, such as those aboard ships or in tropical colonies.

This pair of pistols by John Rimes, fitted with three-stage brass cannon barrels, engraved decoration, and sliding trigger-guard safety catches, represents a fine and functional example of Georgian gunmaking.

Condition: Good overall; structurally sound with old repairs to both stocks, wear and polishing to stocks; engraving remains clear.

Measurements

Barrel length: 15. 5cm (6 in.)

Overall length: 28.5 cm (11.25 in.)

Calibre: 25 bore

Weight each 667 grams

Weight both 1,334 grams

Declaration

Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated these Flintlock Turn-off Pistols to the 18th Century.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1153117

Dealers Internal Reference

7/25/02

Dealers Notes

Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria, Portobello Road

WE are open every Saturday between 9.30 - 3.30pm in Chelsea Galleries 67 Portobello Road London.

We are at the front of the gallery, on the 1st aisle.

Web page:-

https://peterharrisclocks.com/welcome/

Description

Each pistol with three-stage cannon-form barrels in copper alloy, bearing London proof marks and the barrelsmith’s mark of John Rimes, a known gunmaker active in Wapping from the 1740s.

“

The border-engraved breeches are engraved with martial trophies above the steel springs, while the rounded lockplates are engraved "London" beneath.

Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

The tangs and cocks are finely engraved, and each pistol, engraved with a floral motif on the bow.

fig 1. A pair of 18th-century English flintlock turn-off pistols featuring brass cannon barrels, steel lock mechanisms, and smooth walnut stocks. — fig 1. Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

Each pistol retains its original sliding trigger-guard safety catch, a feature typically reserved for higher-grade Queen Anne style pistols. The trigger guard slides forward to block the trigger, preventing discharge, and can be returned to the rear firing position—a desirable element for collectors.

fig 2. A pair of 18th-century English flintlock turn-off pistols featuring brass cannon barrels, steel lock mechanisms, and smooth walnut stocks. — fig 2. Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

Mounted with rounded figured walnut butts, each with silver butt caps, engraved en suite (some wear consistent with age). The stocks have been repolished and both stocks show signs of old repairs, now stable. A well-presented and attractive pair for display or collection.

fig 3. A pair of 18th-century English flintlock turn-off pistols featuring brass cannon barrels, steel lock mechanisms, and smooth walnut stocks. — fig 3. Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

John Rimes was a respected gunmaker recorded at 66 Bell Dock, Wapping, London, and supplied firearms to the East India Company in 1772. His work is well-regarded for its elegant detailing and solid craftsmanship.

fig 4. A pair of 18th-century English flintlock turn-off pistols featuring brass cannon barrels, steel lock mechanisms, and smooth walnut stocks. — fig 4. Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

The use of brass (technically copper alloy) barrels in Rimes’s pistols reflects both practical utility and aesthetic appeal. Unlike steel, brass is non-ferrous—it does not rust—making it especially suited for weapons exposed to humid or maritime climates, such as those aboard ships or in tropical colonies.

fig 5. A pair of 18th-century English flintlock turn-off pistols featuring brass cannon barrels, steel lock mechanisms, and smooth walnut stocks. — fig 5. Pair of Rimes, C1760 English Flintlock Turn-off Pistols Signed by John Rimes, London.

This pair of pistols by John Rimes, fitted with three-stage brass cannon barrels, engraved decoration, and sliding trigger-guard safety catches, represents a fine and functional example of Georgian gunmaking.