Original French Double Barrel Pinfire Pocket Pistol with Hidden Triggers by Paul Berjat – circa 1850 Original Items

Original item. Only One Available. This is a very nice French style double barrel pinfire pistol, made by well-known maker Paul Berjat. When this was produced around 1855, the “NEW” French “Pinfire” cartridge had just been introduced, which featured a pin extending from the rear side of the cartridge that when depressed discharged the round. These were imported in some numbers for use during the U.S. Civil war. However, the firing system was never as popular as might have been expected and by 1870 quite obsolete.

This example measures 7 1/2″ in overall length with 3″ barrels. The steel frame is fully engraved with foliate and floral designs, with more on the lever that breaks open the action. It features two side by side heavily rifled barrels of about 11mm caliber. Pushing the left side release button allows the barrel to tip up, putting the two pinfire chambers into the reloading position.

The pistol looks to have seen quite a bit of cleaning over the years, which has made some of the markings faint. However the P. BERJAT in an oval marking inside the barrel joint is still clear. The grip on this example is walnut, and we suspect it was replaced at some point, as it is definitely not in the typical French style.

Functionally, the pistol unfortunately does not work as intended at present. The right lock has a stuck or missing sear, so it will not hold at half or full cock. The left lock does hold at full cock, but there does not seem to be any half cock position. Also, the hidden triggers on both sides unfortunately do not properly fold away anymore.

Ideal for any overcoat pocket in nice matured condition. A great antique dating to approximately 1855 and therefore pre U.S. Civil War.

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 11mm
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: Single Shot – Two Barrels

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