Military Double Barrel Flintlock Pistol

colin henshaw · 10th January 2021, 04:59 PM

This looks to be an impressive and rare pistol, so as no one else has, I will post a comment, however antique firearms is not a subject I have studied.

I believe "carabiniers" were basically cavalry that carried a short carbine, which would be easier to handle on horseback than a full length musket. Would these double-barreled pistols be carried in a holster, perhaps in a pair on either side of the horse's neck ?

Why would one barrel be grooved and the other smoothbore ? perhaps for different charges... say ball in one and shot in the other ??

The pistol has been restored; to me the steel barrel seems over-cleaned probably with acid ? But maybe this is the norm with regards to antique firearms ?

Anyway, hopefully someone who specializes in this area will make an informed post...

Will M · 10th January 2021, 06:15 PM

Straight grooves holds some of the previous powder fouling allowing easier reloading of a ball, the smooth barrel as suggested for shot and would not require grooves. This reminds me to be more likely used in hunting situations where you don't know what kind of game will present to you next.

10th January 2021, 04:59 PM	#1
colin henshaw Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1,429	This looks to be an impressive and rare pistol, so as no one else has, I will post a comment, however antique firearms is not a subject I have studied. I believe "carabiniers" were basically cavalry that carried a short carbine, which would be easier to handle on horseback than a full length musket. Would these double-barreled pistols be carried in a holster, perhaps in a pair on either side of the horse's neck ? Why would one barrel be grooved and the other smoothbore ? perhaps for different charges... say ball in one and shot in the other ?? The pistol has been restored; to me the steel barrel seems over-cleaned probably with acid ? But maybe this is the norm with regards to antique firearms ? Anyway, hopefully someone who specializes in this area will make an informed post...

10th January 2021, 06:15 PM	#2
Will M Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: In the wee woods north of Napanee Ontario Posts: 395	Straight grooves holds some of the previous powder fouling allowing easier reloading of a ball, the smooth barrel as suggested for shot and would not require grooves. This reminds me to be more likely used in hunting situations where you don't know what kind of game will present to you next.