European Combination Axe/Flintlock Pistol, 18th C

Description

Featuring hand-forged 8 1/8” long teardrop-shaped axe head extending to a double-edged point for thrusting and attached to a slightly curved 29 ¼” oval-section hardwood shaft. Shaft with foliate carving at the base of the axe blade ferrule; flat steel butt cap. Mounted to the upper back section of the shaft is a 6” octagonal-to-round barrel of approximately .50 (12 mm) caliber. Flat lockplate with rear teat and flat serpentine cock, both lightly engraved with scrolling foliage. Maker’s mark on the inside of the lock. Straight decoratively turned trigger; made without trigger guard. Very good condition, the axe blade showing lamination and scattered light pitting, stock with minor dents and handling marks. Weapons such as this were very popular for naval boarding use, as they could be used to shoot, hack, or stab an opponent. Overall length 35” (89 cm).