English Private purchase Officer\\\\\\\'s or Gentleman\\\\\\\'s Percussion Pistol .65 Muzzleloader

A superb private purchase percussion pistol pistol by Wm Probin, Birmingham.

William Probin was but one of the extended, multi-generation Probin ‘dynasty ‘ of British gunmakers. The Probins are recorded to have worked in both Birmingham or London, and some in both. Those that were based in Birmingham nevertheless had strong commercial links with the London ‘Trade’ as might be expected.
This pistol has a 'hook-on' 7" heavy, octagonal, browned, 'twist' barrel (approx 0.65" bore) with an unusually clean bore. It shows crisp London Gunmakers private view and proof marks and has a captive ramrod The classically-crafted lock is in excellent condition, with very strong springs, holding properly at half- and full-cock before then releasing cleanly and with power. It is and signed by the maker. The percussion nipple is clear, in good condition and can be removed with ease.
The slide safety catch firmly engages the hammer at half-cock and the shroud on the nose of the dolphin hammer is intact.

This pistol has been fully checked over by a retired former gunsmith highly experienced in antique arms. The woodwork is undamaged, with no losses, shows some minor handling marks from antiquity and has been sympathetically re-polished. The stock has a chequered pistol grip, German Silver wedge plates and an inlaid vacant German silver escutcheon at the wrist. Visible external screw/pin heads have correct 'timing' and are Nitre (aka Belgian) blued. The pistol is cased with some accessories in a black velour baize re-lined and locking pistol box (sadly non-contemporary). Price includes UK delivery. Pistol only (ie without the case and accessories) £850.
As an obsolete antique item it is sold as a collectors item only. No Licence is required in the United Kingdom. ...Read full description