Pair of Ottoman Pistols

[rickystl]

Hello all.
Well, not really a pair. But both pistols are typical Kubar pistols probably made at one or more of the many gun making centers in the Balkans, under contract with the Ottoman Empire. And, unless built as a pair, I've never seen any two exactly alike. Which is amazing considering these pistols were made by the thousands over a 100-125 year period.
Sometime during the turn of the 19th Century, these pistols took on many of the styling features of French pistols built during the first half of the 18th Century. Not really sure why this styling, other than the overall attractive look. I do know that the slightly slimmer grip combined with the large butt cap makes a very comfortable grip while firing these pistols. And it would be an assist while retrieving the pistol from holders on the saddle or a sash.
As decorated as this pistols are, they seem to be done in a somewhat "generic" fashion. Engravings, inlays, carvings, etc. don't seem to represent anything in particular. This may have been done so as to appeal to a broad range of prospective customers, regardless of ethnic or religious background. Of course, I'm just speculating. But it does seem to make sense.

Both of these pistols are in safe firing condition. One lock just required a small amout of tuning and interal cleaning. While the other took more serious surgery. The tumbler was poorly designed to begin with. So we made a new tumbler with the correct geometry and re-assembled and tested. Along the way, both had new steel liners in the barrels for safe shooting. It doesn't look like it from the muzzle photos, but both barrels are the same caliber .60. So the same size ball can be used for both. And they are much fun to shoot. Especially when you hold and fire from both hands!

Anyway, picture heavy, so hope you enjoy. And thanks for looking. Rick.