^Lot 2419 COOL EARLY BREECH LOADING FLINTLOCK HOLSTER PISTOL

BY VORRA OF BRESCIA (?). Cal. 45. S# NSN. The 13-3/4" octagon to round barrel is fitted with innovative vertically sliding breech block actuated by pivoting lever with mushroom shaped head hinged on trigger guard. While in the raised position a paper cartridge or individually loaded ball and powder can be inserted. Simply push down on top to close. Mechanism is held in either position by tensioning spring screwed to left side of breech. A gold maker's poincon is at top of breech with letters "GS" around a central object resembling the top of a fish. A search in Heer, "Der Neue Stockel" finds this mark with note: on an early flintlock breech loading pistol; circa 1680. Back spring flint lock with rounded plate and rebated tail is fitted with round bodied serpentine cock, small round inset pan, unbridled friction frizzen and feather spring with foliate finial. Interior of lock is deeply stamped with the same cartouche as found on barrel. Lock is engraved with blooming flower over "Vorra" (Listed as Giovan Maria working in Brescia in 1743. This pistol is earlier, possibly by the father of Giovan; further research may be fruitful.) European walnut stock with fishtail grip extends to muzzle and is pinned to barrel. Grip cap is nicely filed with flutes emanating from mounting screw. Steel tipped ramrod mounts through small double ring pipe and carved wooden entrance; without thimble. CONDITION: very good to fine. All metal parts cleaned to silver gray. Stock retains most of what it appears to be its original finish with considerable repair work found at breech area with some replaced wood, epoxy repairs and a missing chip or two on bottom. Bore is very good; shiny with some minor pitting. Lock is operable, but soft. Breech loading mechanism is good. (01-26940/MGM). ANTIQUE. $4,000-6,000.