Beautifully Signed Long Japanese Matchlock Pistol (tanegashima) Circa 1820

15 and 1/2 inch long octagonal barrel with cannon muzzle and ‘wedding band’ front and rear sight. Barrel inlaid with lovely silver family mon. Brass snap matchlock lock retains all original small parts (usually missing) fence and hinged brass pan cover. Fine Japanese red oak full stock with brass mounts.

The lock works perfectly. 50 caliber bore is smooth and excellent. 25 and 1/2 inches long overall. This fine matchlock pistol even retains its original ramrod. Condition of barrel is patinated with some minor corrosion but appears to be of Damascus style iron.

A far above average, unusually elegant Japanese pistol that will find favor with anyone who likes tanegashima or a collector assembling a progress of arms beginning with the matchlock ignition system and continuing through cartridge weapons.