Description
Original French Double Barrel Pinfire Pocket Pistol with Hidden Triggers by Paul Berjat – circa 1850
Item Description
Original item. Only One Available. This is a very nice French style double barrel pinfire pistol, made by well-known maker Paul Berjat. When this was produced around 1855, the “NEW” French “Pinfire” cartridge had just been introduced, which featured a pin extending from the rear side of the cartridge that when depressed discharged the round. These were imported in some numbers for use during the U.S. Civil war. However, the firing system was never as popular as might have been expected and by 1870 quite obsolete.
This example measures 7 1/2″ in overall length with 3″ barrels. The steel frame is fully engraved with foliate and floral designs, with more on the lever that breaks open the action. It features two side by side heavily rifled barrels of about 11mm caliber. Pushing the left side release button allows the barrel to tip up, putting the two pinfire chambers into the reloading position.
The pistol looks to have seen quite a bit of cleaning over the years, which has made some of the markings faint. However the P. BERJAT in an oval marking inside the barrel joint is still clear. The grip on this example is walnut, and we suspect it was replaced at some point, as it is definitely not in the typical French style.
Functionally, the pistol unfortunately does not work as intended at present. The right lock has a stuck or
Ideal for any overcoat pocket in nice matured condition. A great antique dating to approximately 1855 and therefore pre U.S. Civil War.
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 11mm
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: Single Shot – Two Barrels
NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.
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