Any flintlock experts out there? - The Firearms Forum

Buffalochip · 12-16-2008, 12:44 PM

Attached is a photo of what I'm guessing to be an 18th century flintlock lighter. "Tinder pistols" were made by gunsmiths prior to the invention of the match in 1826, so I know it is likely prior to that. I'm hoping someone can narrow down its age and likely place of manufacture. There are NO marks on it. John Dillins' "The Kentucky Rifle" pictures one that is identical to this one, but gives no date. Any info would be appreciated.

TranterUK · 12-16-2008, 12:58 PM

Well I am sitting here in the UK and too my right is a flint lighter.

I have to say I have never seen one like yours with that long hammer. I couldnt date or place it. The ones I have seen have mostly box locks. Not much help, sorry. At least you know its unusual.

Buffalochip · 12-16-2008, 01:08 PM

Thank you. I believe this style hammer is called a "gooseneck," which I think predates the boxlock style you referred to. Dixiegunworks.com lists a tinderpistol of the boxlock variety, which I believe is of English design.

45Auto · 12-19-2008, 11:15 AM

The external lock suggests it is Spanish in origin. The stock is most likely a replacement.

Cool item!

Win_88 · 09-14-2009, 02:48 AM

Remove the grips and look for markings...

If none its more likely spanish made..

But more pics please

12-16-2008, 12:44 PM	#1
Buffalochip Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 754	Any flintlock experts out there? Attached is a photo of what I'm guessing to be an 18th century flintlock lighter. "Tinder pistols" were made by gunsmiths prior to the invention of the match in 1826, so I know it is likely prior to that. I'm hoping someone can narrow down its age and likely place of manufacture. There are NO marks on it. John Dillins' "The Kentucky Rifle" pictures one that is identical to this one, but gives no date. Any info would be appreciated. Attached Images -->

12-16-2008, 12:58 PM	#2
TranterUK Advanced Senior Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Cambridge UK Posts: 5,103	Re: Any flintlock experts out there? Well I am sitting here in the UK and too my right is a flint lighter. I have to say I have never seen one like yours with that long hammer. I couldnt date or place it. The ones I have seen have mostly box locks. Not much help, sorry. At least you know its unusual. __________________ DVC - Diligentia, Vis, Celeritas - Accuracy, Power, Speed. The light at the end of the recession tunnel IS a train coming the other way! Last edited by TranterUK; 12-16-2008 at 01:00 PM..

12-16-2008, 01:08 PM	#3
Buffalochip Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 754	Re: Any flintlock experts out there? Thank you. I believe this style hammer is called a "gooseneck," which I think predates the boxlock style you referred to. Dixiegunworks.com lists a tinderpistol of the boxlock variety, which I believe is of English design.

12-19-2008, 11:15 AM	#4
45Auto Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Posts: 1,121	Re: Any flintlock experts out there? The external lock suggests it is Spanish in origin. The stock is most likely a replacement. Cool item!

09-14-2009, 02:48 AM	#5
Win_88 Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Posts: 13	Re: Any flintlock experts out there? Remove the grips and look for markings... If none its more likely spanish made.. But more pics please __________________ Winchester Model 88 Lever Action .308 cal.