>День добрый >Весьма популярное в 18-м веке оружие путешественника.
Вот текст, который сопровождал фото. К сожалению английского не знаю, поэтому точного перевода не сделаю - а переводчик дает только общий смысл.
5.85 IMPORTANT EARLY BLUNDERBUSS. Incredible 18th century sea service blunderbuss as used in the Royal Navy in the 1770's! This amazing firearm features an all brass flared barrel and mahogany stock with brass furniture including butt plate and trigger guard. The top of the barrel is engraved "Cornhill, London" in fancy script and impressed with two inspector's proof marks of a crown surmounting a "CP" and another with a crown surmounting a "V." The steel lock plate is signed "I. Southall" and bears the flintlock firing mechanism. This muzzle loading gun is complete with its original brass-tipped wooden ram rod which fits neatly into its receptacle on the left side of the barrel. This imposing weapon is beautifully decorated with hand engraved floral designs lavished on the trigger guard, butt plate, and barrel. Of particular note is the fearsome spring-loaded bayonet which is released by means of the small trigger immediately in front of the trigger guard. Once engaged the stiletto-like bayonet flips into position in the blink of an eye, locking into place as a formidable secondary weapon. Even more notable is the fact that this a a very rare "under flip" example. While folding bayonet weapons of this era are rare, under flip examples are virtually unheard of. This exceptional naval firearm has a muzzle bore of slightly over 1 inch and measures 27 1/2 inches in length exclusive of the bayonet. It measures 32 3/4 inches overall with the bayonet engaged. Condition is outstanding with very little wear and absolutely no signs of abuse. The brass surfaces have been carefully hand polished and the steel components have a nice oxidized finish with minimal corrosion otherwise expected in the marine environment in which this weapon was used. A museum quality naval weapon of the first order -- one which we are honored to present. >Денисов
