French Flintlock Cavalry Pistol, France 1806

Description of the Product

This French flintlock cavalry pistol, known as the Pistolet modèle An IX, was used by French units from 1801 onwards. It was designed for the light cavalry corps, such as the  Hussars and Chasseurs, to replace the disappointing 1777 model. Each horseman was issued two pistols with saddle holsters. It was used in most mounted units of The Consulat (the government at the end of the French First Republic) and during the early years of the Empire (Napoleon was crowned Emperor in 1804) as well as in the Navy. A defensive as well as an offensive weapon, the pistol was complementary to the cavalry saber, which remained the main weapon. In combat,flintlock pistols were used for a single shot, since reloading was very slow. Therefore after having been fired, they were used as a blackjack, and why the handle butts are often reinforced with a metal plate.

The Modele An IX pistols were manufactured by the Arsenal at St. Etienne, as well as the arsenals of Charleville, Maubeuge and Versailles. The pistol is dated according to the French Republican/Revolutionary calendar, which was in use from 1793 to 1805. Year IX began on September 23rd 1800 according to the Gregorian calendar.

As well as being used by the Napoleonic armies in Europe, the pistol travelled to the United States where it became a  popular "trade pistol". It was carried by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, (the Corps of Discovery Expedition) as they crossed the western parts of the United States, from St. Louis to the Pacific coast. The expedition was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, and the perilous journey lasted from May 1804 to September 1806.

• This gun is an exact replica of the original. The replica matches the original in size, but may be slightly lighter in weight. The mechanisms of the weapon are working. The weapon can be cocked and dry fired like a real one. Due to the materials used, the mechanisms cannot withstand continuous cocking and firing for long periods.
• Genuine wood and cast metal has been used to make this replica weapon. Zamac differs from steel in many respects, so the structure of the gun does not withstand pressure, it cannot be used to fire bullets, nor can it be converted to a functional weapon by any means.
• Replica guns such as this do not require permits in Finland, nor in many other countries. However, since the gun looks real, it should not be carried in public.
• A replica gun is perfect for historical re-enactment, on a theater stage, in film productions, for collectors of historical memorabilia, and as decoration.
• Length: 35 cm
• Weight: 800 g
• Manufacturer: Denix, Spain

Due to the nature of this item please read about shipping options/restrictions if ordering outside Finland.   –More information about international shipping-