Original British Flintlock Pocket Pistol by Forrest of Oxford with Turn-Off Barrel & Fold-out Trigger – circa 1790 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely little British “Box-Lock” style Pocket Flintlock pistol, featuring a 1 5/8 inch “turn off” .43″ bore barrel, which is actually still easily removable from the frame! Most of these that we get are rust and fouling frozen, so this is definitely a treat! It is signed on the sides of the “Box-lock” with FORREST on the left, and OXFORD on the right. This is a known maker of flintlock pistols during the late 18th century based in Oxford, and were known as a Gunmaker and Sword Cutler. Unfortunately there is not much other information out there about he company.

The bottom of the frame is marked twice on the underside with the pre-1813 Proof Markings from the City of Birmingham, a CROWN over CROSSED SCEPTERS. We do not know if this means that the components for the pistol were made there, or that it was taken there for proving. Oxford is about half-way between London and Birmingham, both of which had their own proof houses.

The pistol follows the classic style, and has some lovely engraving on both sides of the box lock, which look to be stands of arms, possibly with some foliage and spears. It is definitely an upmarket example, featuring a sliding safety that holds the frizzen closed, as well as a “fold-out” trigger that only appears when the pistol is fully cocked. This allowed the pistol to be stored securely in the pocket, ready to use, with no trigger to catch on the fabric. The pistol also is fitted with a very nice slab-sided curved grip, which is in very good shape. Overall condition is very nice, and it has a great look.

A really nice late 18th Century British pocket flintlock pistol, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1790
Bore Diameter: .43″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 1 5/8 inches
Overall Length: 6 1/8 inches
Action: Top-Action “Box-Lock” Flintlock
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. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.