Looking more like elegant, high quality, European, duelers, this pair of pistols were made to appeal to the aristocratic heritage of many French cavalry officers. Combining functionality and a beauty of style, these pistols where not meant for the rank and file.
Offered here is a rare pair, of the 1833 model, second type French Officer’s percussion cavalry pistols made at the end of the Second Republic.
The .69 caliber, octagonal, swamped and sighted barrels feature a tight spiral twist pattern with micro groove rifling. The barrels measure around 8 ½ inches with the pistols measuring just under 15 inches.
The barrels are dated ‘1851’ along with the clear inspector’s convex hexagons lettered ‘A’ and ‘C’. The barrels are also stamped ‘MN’ for the ‘Manufacture Nationale’ (national manufacture).
Both rounded back action locks are clearly marked 'M.re N.le de / Chatellerault' and carry the tiny final inspector’s diamond shaped cartouche.
Both pistols hold half cock but only one will release from full cock.
The iron nose caps, trigger guards with finger spur, and butt caps with lanyard rings are in good condition. Unscrewing the butt caps reveals two spare nipples and a powder measure that attaches to one of the rammers. See photos.
One side plate sits proud of the woodwork.
The briar root wood, half stocks with fine checkering are in a good used condition with the usual handling marks.
Pairs of cavalry pistols are hard to find, especially in such good original condition.
Sold as collector items only.
Price includes shipping in Australia.