Original Excellent French Revolution Era Iron Mounted Gendarme Flintlock Pistol circa 1780 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a small Flintlock pistol from the French Revolution Era, as carried (in a large pocket) by French Gendarmes (Policemen) during the late 1700s and early 1800s. These were standard issue during “The Terror” following the formation of the First French Republic, and stayed in service for thirty or so years, until the end of Napoleon’s First Empire.

The pistol is equipped with a 5 inch barrel and has an overall length of just 9 1/2 inches, making it very easy to conceal and maneuver. The bore measures out to about .67 inches, probably for a 5/8 inch ball. It has a lovely walnut stock with all Iron mountings, except for the brass flash pan. The lock plate is unmarked, so this was most likely a private purchase example, possibly produced in Belgium.

The pistol is in overall excellent condition, with a lovely patina of age. The lock functions correctly, holding at half cock and firing at full. Aside from some light handling marks, the stock looks almost unissued. We cannot see any splits or cracks, and it has a lovely glow. The metalwork all has a nice gray patina over it, showing it was well cared for over the centuries. It still has the original ramrod, with a threaded end. The only issue noted is a small dent on the right muzzle, which could easily be corrected. We left it in place, as it appears to be from long ago, and is part of the history of the piece.

A Classic French Flintlock Pistol used by the Gendarmerie, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1780
Caliber: about .67″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 9 1/2 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
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.