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Jim McDougall · 9th August 2007, 08:54 PM

Hi Fernando,
I must say this pistol you have posted is, as always with your items! most interesting and I am learning quite a lot on these firearms from your continued research and Berkeleys notes. I just received the current Bonhams catalog from London and item #422 is a flintlock 'turnoff' pistol by North, Royal Exchange, London c.1750. While the pistol is in most regards similar with longer barrel, what is most interesting is the same style silver wire foliate scrollwork on the butt.
Edward North is listed as Master of the Gunmakers Company in 1753 and 1758, and armourer to the Honourable Artillery Company. He is also shown as furbisher of arms to London bankers. Perhaps this smaller gun was made as a protection pistol for one of these bankers in the smaller size and as you note for a 'night pistol' . Sort of a pocket shotgun?

I wish I could scan the photo to post, but the scrollwork is compellingly like that seen on this North pistol. The auction took place July 25,2007 at Bonhams www.bonhams.com

Incidentally, what does the term 'turnoff pistol' mean"?

I hope this helps.

All best regards,
Jim

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9th August 2007, 08:54 PM	#18
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,192	Hi Fernando, I must say this pistol you have posted is, as always with your items! most interesting and I am learning quite a lot on these firearms from your continued research and Berkeleys notes. I just received the current Bonhams catalog from London and item #422 is a flintlock 'turnoff' pistol by North, Royal Exchange, London c.1750. While the pistol is in most regards similar with longer barrel, what is most interesting is the same style silver wire foliate scrollwork on the butt. Edward North is listed as Master of the Gunmakers Company in 1753 and 1758, and armourer to the Honourable Artillery Company. He is also shown as furbisher of arms to London bankers. Perhaps this smaller gun was made as a protection pistol for one of these bankers in the smaller size and as you note for a 'night pistol' . Sort of a pocket shotgun? I wish I could scan the photo to post, but the scrollwork is compellingly like that seen on this North pistol. The auction took place July 25,2007 at Bonhams www.bonhams.com Incidentally, what does the term 'turnoff pistol' mean"? I hope this helps. All best regards, Jim