Mid 19th Century Spanish Zelaieta (Basque Country) .700 Calibre Cavalry Belt Pistol With Correct Hinged Nipple Protector & Captive Steel Ram Rod. Sn 23377 percussion .70 Cal Muzzleloader Muzzleloader

Mid 19th Century Spanish Zelaieta (Basque Country) .700 Calibre Cavalry Belt Pistol With Correct Hinged Nipple protector & Captive Steel Ram Rod. Sn 23377 - 23377

An 1852 Model Spanish Cavalry Percussion Pistol. These pistols were carried by Spain's Cavalry during the Hispano Moroccan War (1859-1860) when somewhere in the region of 3000 Cavalry were deployed. One of the most notable features of this pistol is the distinctive and robust nipple protector which is spring loaded and can be swept forward out of the way when the hammer is at half position. The pistol is in very good condition with all original wood furniture which has just light bumps & bruises to be expected with age and use. The pistol has regulation brass fittings, correct nipple protector, belt bar and captive steel ram rod. The action plate is stamped with Crown above ‘Zelaieta’ (a common Basque place name for "field" (zelai + eta) in Spain, most notably referring to a neighbuorhood in Gautegiz Arteaga (Biscay) or as a local synonym for the town centre of Abadiño). The action plate also has ‘1852’ model detail and number ‘N56’. The model and number are repeated on the barrel. The metal & brass have several inspection marks (all illustrated). The 7 ¾” long barrel’s smooth bore is clean (13 ¾” overall length). The pistol cocks and dry fires with a strong action. The price includes UK delivery. NB As an antique percussion pistol no licence is required to own this item in the UK if retained as part of a collection or display. Sn 23377

£575.00