What is the difference between flintlock and percussion pistols?

Flintlock pistols rely on a flint striking a steel frizzen to produce a spark for ignition. Percussion pistols utilise an external hammer striking a detonating cap placed on a nipple. The percussion system emerged later, offering faster and more reliable ignition in damp weather compared to the older flintlock mechanism.

How do I identify a pocket pistol?

Pocket pistols feature short barrels and compact grips designed to be concealed easily in a coat or muff. Many examples omit protruding sights to prevent snagging when drawn quickly. These pieces were carried by travellers and civilians for personal defence during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Were these pistols used in the military?

Military issue pieces, such as cavalry holster pistols and Tower-stamped arms, were standardised for distribution to troops. They typically feature robust steel and brass construction designed for harsh service conditions. Private officers purchased their own sidearms separately, often opting for finer finishes and higher-grade walnut stocks than standard regulation issues.

Why is walnut preferred for these stocks?

Walnut offers an ideal balance of strength, shock absorption, and weight. Its tight grain prevents splitting under the heavy recoil of gunpowder discharge. Gunsmiths also prized the timber for its rich natural colour and decorative figure, which could be polished to a high lustre.

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Antique Walnut Pistol

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When you handle an antique walnut pistol, you hold a piece of history fashioned from dark, figured timber and forged steel.

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

18th century

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

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£2,200

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

Ottoman Flintlock Pistol with French Dumarest Lock, Circa 1800. Silver Parc on Stock. Beautifully Cast Decorated Barrel Also with Gilt Inlay Decoration.

18th century

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Ottoman Flintlock Pistol with French Dumarest Lock, Circa 1800. Silver Parc on Stock. Beautifully Cast Decorated Barrel Also with Gilt Inlay Decoration.

From Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria

£850

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

Percusion Pistol by Auguste Francotte - Liège

19th century

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Percusion Pistol by Auguste Francotte - Liège

From Sovereign Antiques Of Nuneaton

£395

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

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Antique Walnut Pistol

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

Ottoman Flintlock Pistol with French Dumarest Lock, Circa 1800. Silver Parc on Stock. Beautifully Cast Decorated Barrel Also with Gilt Inlay Decoration.

Percusion Pistol by Auguste Francotte - Liège

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