German Flintlock Target Pistol by Johann Jakob Kuchenreuter of Regensberg

Description:
NSN, .50 Caliber, 8 3/8" tapered barrel with a fine, bright bore that has a small amount of very mild freckling in spots. This is a very well-made and attractive pistol, originally one of a matched pair, that has decorative silver inlays along the top of the barrel at the front sight and along the breech, with the maker’s name along a raised panel along the mid-section: "IOH. IAC. KUCHENREUTER." The steel has an overall lightly mottled dark gray patina, while the silver has tarnished to a dark bluish gray color over time. A large numeral "2" is present on the top breech flat, and three gold-filled maker proofs are present as well (plates 7719 [x2] and 7720 on page 651 of Heer. Eugène. Der Neue Støckel vol. 1, Journal-Verlag Schwend GmbH. [1979]). The lock is unadorned except for some decorative serrations along the lower tip and bend of the frizzen spring, and has an overall smooth dull pewter gray patina with some slightly mottled freckling here and there. The lock is equipped with a fully functional single-set trigger and works flawlessly, locking firmly at both half and full-cock. The pin-fastened walnut stock is in fine shape, with extensive relief carved scrollwork embellishments throughout, as well as a dark horn forend cap. The pistol is fitted with a bright brass sideplate with scalloped edges and smooth face, an ornate wrist escutcheon, and bright brass butt cap with long straps, an ornatelt dressed brass trigger guard, and equally ornate ramrod thimble and tailpipe. The wood has small handling marks and minor blemishes scattered throughout the otherwise fine old oil finish, and the original ramrod is still present, with matching horn tip. Johann Jakob Kuchenreuter (b. 1709 & d. 1783) was a member of a well-established Bavarian gunmaking family, operating in Steinweg, near Regensburg, Bavaria. He was the son of Johann Christoph Kuchenreuter (b. 1670 & d. 1743) and brother to Joseph (b. 1712 & d. 1769) and Johann Andreas (b. 1716 & d. 1795). The family were all listed as head gunmakers to the Princes of the House of Thurn und Taxis. This is a splendid example of his work and would make a wonderful addition to any collection. Antique;

Antique: Yes

Price: $3,595.00