Unique Dual Ignition South India Long Gun

[rickystl]

Hello All.

I keep telling myself not to buy any more guns for a while. But I simply could not pass this one up. I bought this from a long time dealer in antique guns. I'll post here his original description with lots of pictures. And I will add my own comments on my next post. A most interesting gun.

Rick

" In researching this particular long arm which is a unique "dual ignition" musket from the early 1800s - that is a combination matchlock/flintlock arm - we have found that there is only one place in the world that this weapon originated. An exceptional example of superior workmanship, the hardwood stock of characteristic form, with stout brass mounts showing European influence, including, trigger, triggerguard with sling loop, brass sideplate, and profiled barrelbands. Mounted with two ignition mechanisms, the traditional Indian matchlock and a European-type flintlock, each with its individual trigger. The lock incised with an insignia emulating the British East India Company sigil. The fine barrel is forged of dramatically-detailed pattern-welded damascus steel with swamped muzzle. Robert Elgood in his book on Islamic arms mentioned that the double-lock system was introduced to the Punjab during the time of Ranjit Singh by a Hidustani smith, Mirza Bharmar, by whose name the weapon was thereafter known and produced in Lahore (KAR KHANE YE LAHUR (Arms Works of Lahore.). See R. Elgood, Firearms of the Islamic World, (Tauris: London) p. 176-77 for additional data. Stock is in fine, sound condition with originalramrod intact. This musket was developed at the Bharma Lahora Arsenal circa 1809 and, as a result the weapon is known by that name. When flintlock not in use the hammer for the matchlock swings over from the left side of stock and the trigger behind the trigger guard activates that action. There is also a large brass flash plate which appears to protect the shooter from harm.The musket measures 65" overall with 50-1/2" barrel. "