Original 18th Century Italian Decorated Ball Butt Pistol by Rossi for the Mediterranean Market – circa 1740 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very attractive Italian flintlock pistol, produced circa 1740 made for the Mediterranean market by ROSSI, as marked on the lock plate. We have checked the rest of the pistol, and that is the only marking, though it looks like the barrel may have had some, now polished away. The stock is fitted with a lovely “Ball Butt”, and is all inlaid with silver wire and faux gemstones. This decoration continues over the rear half of the pistol, which is in excellent condition.

The pistol features a very elegant 13 inch long slim barrel, the type used by the Ottoman Pirates from the early 1700’s through the rest of the century. With an overall length of 20 inches, it presents very nicely, and complete with a walrus ivory tipped ram rod.

Condition is very good, with the metal all polished bright, and the wood having a lovely dark finish. There does appear to be a repaired crack on the wrist of the butt stock, a common occurrence. We also checked the lock, and it will hold at half cock correctly, but does not fire correctly. We suspect that the tumbler is worn.

A very nice example, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1740
Caliber: about .67 inches
Ammunition Type: lead ball and powder
Barrel Length: 13 inches
Overall Length: 20 1/2 inches
Action: Side Action 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.