France - Saint Etienne - Model 1777 - Cavalry - Flintlock - Pistol - 17.1 mm
This pistol was made during the reign of Louis XVI in the years leading up to the Napoleonic wars and in the middle of the American war of Independence (1775-1783). The lock-plate is stamped with a crown over the letter L. indicating the reign of Louis XV1 (1754-1793).
All iron cleaned .75 calibre 7 1/2" barrel, various official proofs. Lock marked "St Etienne" with crown over "L" proof. Fabrication year on the barrel: 1780 - Brass components are excellent.
Total length: 33 cm (13 inches) Barrel length: 19 cm (7.48 inches) Calibre: 17. 1 mm Weight: 1. 4 kg - Year: 1780
The steel belt hook is missing as is quite often the case with this model. This model Flintlock pistol is quite rare. This type of heavy calibre flintlock pistol was carried by the French infantry, naval personnel, and cavalry officers during the era of the Napoleonic campaigns of the late 18th-early 19th century, including at the Battle of Waterloo. This is one of the most difficult French military pistols to find.
