A Fine and Rare Inlaid Ball Butt Wheellock Holster Pistol “Puffer” by the Maker “I.O.” Circa 1575

01-21947

Cal. .750 groove diameter, 9 groove rifling
S# 10140 both (1827)

The plain, swamped half-octagonal, half-round barrel struck three times at the breech with the maker’s mark “I.O.” above a four leaf emblem and further struck above with a winged bird in a shield. The flat lock is unadorned other than being struck with the maker’s mark in a shield.

The dog (hammer) is engraved with scrolls and the spring is engraved ensuite. Lock has a safety. The walnut fullstock is inlaid throughout its length with pellets, tendrils, strap work and well executed hop leaves in scrimshawed white stag horn. Two large stag horn panels frame the breech tang depicting a crowned king and queen. The ball is inlaid ensuite with four panels dividing the hop leaf inlay. Large ramrod pipe of scrimshawed white stag horn. Fore-end cap of scrimshawed white stag horn ensuite with the original ramrod.

Well shaped steel triggerguard. Trigger with ball finial. This is a very handsome, high art, all original, period inlaid wheellock pistol.

ANTIQUE