| By far, the strangest and best preserved Belgian pistol in my collection, this 12mm smoothbore pistol has a 4 1/4 inch octagonal barrel and is fitted with a 2 3/4 inch spring actuated bayonet. The engravings on this pistol are very clear and other than some very minor bruises on the grip, this one is in near mint condition and functions perfectly. Manufactured in Liege, Belgium (circa 1840-1845). Overall Length - 9 1/8 inches. |
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Overall view of this well preserved pistol, showing the spring actuated bayonet in the closed position. All metal parts are blued, and have faded to a nice plum patina. |
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A closeup of the fine engraving on the left side of the frame of this pistol showing a perfect "Liege" proof. |
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The spring actuated bayonet mechanism which still functions perfectly after more than 150 years. |
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The bayonet is revealed by pulling back on the triggerguard to release the tip of the bayonet. Notice the fine starburst engraving on the triggerguard bow. |
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The bayonet in the full open position, the ultimate in last-ditch defenses. |
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The decorated capbox cover, located at the base of the grip. Held in place by a clip, this cover opens to reveal a small cavity in the base for storage of percussion caps, or one extra ball. |
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The embellishments on the grip include an inlaid silver shield escutcheon, which usually denotes that this pistol was produced for the upper-class market. As with most "Liege" pistols, most of the metal parts are engraved, and the pattern shown on this hammer rear tang is a common theme. |
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A closeup view of the engraving on the right side of the frame of this fine pistol. As I mentioned before, most of these Liege manufactured pistols exhibit a high degree of craftmanship as well as the artistic use of engraving to make them some of the most attractive, and unusual, small frame weapons produced during the period. |
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