^Lot 2407 PAIR OF FINE QUALITY SAWHANDLE FLINTLOCK DUELLING

OR TARGET PISTOLS BY J. FRAY. Cal. 53. S# NSN. John Fray worked in Leicester between 1817-1828 toward the end of the flint era. These pistols exhibit nearly all of the improvements ever to be made in the development of the flintlock. The 9" octagon twist barrels with under ribs are engraved "Leicester" on top flats. Patent breeches are deeply inset on both sides and have platinum touch holes. Two gold bands frame engraving on top flat. Nicely engraved breech irons are fitted with "U" notch sights. Chamfered locks with rebated tails are fitted with high breasted serpentine cocks with back sliding safetys. "V" shaped waterproof pans are deeply filed with stylistic sweep to priming surface. Frizzens are bridled and feather springs with bulbous finials are fitted with large rollers. Locks are engraved with nicely cut scroll within feather borders on chamfers. "Fray" is under each pan. Triggers are set. Sawhandle half stocks of root European walnut have flared checkered grips. Steel trigger guards with stylized pineapple finials have finger spurs. Grips have steel outer bands and engraved silver ovals are on bottoms. New ramrods with brass tips mount through plain pipes and silver thimbles. Stocks attach to barrels with single side bolts through rectangular silver escutcheons. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: old auction information sheet listing these pistols, estimated at $10,000-$15,000. CONDITION: good to fine as refinished. Barrels with nearly all newer brown finish with excellent definition to pattern. All other steel and iron parts cleaned to bright silver over some light pin prick pitting. Stocks have nearly all of a new varnish finish over multiple marks and dings. Checkering has not been re-cut. Bores are good; lightly pitted. Locks operable. Safety on one gun will not engage. Triggers will not set (probably gummed). New ramrods are glued in place by wood finish. (01-26962/MGM). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.