Flintlock pistol

A flintlock pistol from the first half of the 18th century, which is, of course, a gunpowder weapon. It has a slightly thickened barrel at both ends and an elongated front sight. This type of weapon was particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and was used by cavalry. In the flintlock mechanism, the ignition of the powder on the pan was initiated by sparks generated when the flint, clamped in the jaws of the cock, struck the frizzen (a steel plate). The flame from the pan passed through the touchhole on the side of the barrel into the chamber, igniting the ejection charge and firing the shot. In the case of flintlock pistols and their ammunition, gunpowder was poured into the barrel, rammed with a ramrod, a ball was inserted, and then rammed again. The relatively simple construction of the flintlock pistol allowed for easy field repairs. The flintlock of the Łańcut pistol, on both the lock plate and the cock, is decorated with engraved floral ornamentation as well as a snake's head. The handle, with a spherical end, is fitted with a steel cap. The pistol was made using gunsmith steel. The calibre of the pistol is 17 mm, and it is made from walnut wood.

Cyprian Biernat