Original British Flintlock Blunderbuss Pistol with Spring Bayonet by John Richards of London – c. 1770 – 1795 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. John Richards started with a shop in the Strand in London, followed by a Shop in the Midlands city of Birmingham 1745 and the business continued for two generations until 1810. This fine pistol is of Boxlock form, and probably dates to 1770 to 1795. It is fitted with a slab sided walnut slab stock beautifully checkered down the rear surface, a touch that we have never seen before.

The barrel is an extra long 7 1/2″ in length, under which is mounted a “spring” bayonet with a 5 1/2″ blade. This is held closed by a safety catch behind the trigger, and when released it swings out. The spring is a little weak, so it does not always latch forward, but it certainly is still impressive. A small button latch on the right side releases the bayonet, which can then be returned to the stowed position.

On the right side of the barrel is fitted a wooden ram rod at 3.00 O’clock. The iron trigger guard encloses the TWO triggers, the rear one to release the spring bayonet and the front one to fire the pistol. The flat sided iron action is engraved on both sides with JOHN / RICHARDS on the left side and STRAND / LONDON on the right side. Behind the flintlock cock there is a sliding safety that when pushed into the forward position locks both the cock and the frizzen in both the full cock or half cocked position, a common feature on guns of this type.

A very high quality pistol especially fitted with this LONG Barrel. Measures 12″ in overall length.

A real beauty, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1770 – 1795
Caliber: 0.63″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 7 1/4  inches
Overall Length: 11 3/4 inches
Action: Flintlock Top Action with Safety
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these.