Neatly assembled by contemporary builder Kenneth Lincavage this pistol is a replica of a 1733 French Dragoon pistol. The earlier 1731 and 1732 era French pistols used 15-1/2" barrels, during 1733 the length was reduced to 12". Mr. Lincavage noted he shaped many of the moldings and part details from surviving photographed examples. Weight of the pistol is a mere 2.8 pounds and it fits comfortably into the average size mans hand. Originally produced prior to the French and Indian War, this pistol would make a great piece for an impression of that war, or the American Revolutionary War. The .62 caliber smoothbore barrel is polished bright in period military fashion. The walnut stock has been stained dark brown and was finished with a boiled linseed oil giving it a satin sheen now visible on the gun. This pistol is used with a few small marks on the stock.
The .62 caliber smoothbore barrel measures 12" long and is polished armoury bright. The bore is bright and has been well maintained. The breech end of the barrel is octagon with the flats tapering to round with a very slight flare at the muzzle. A single tang bolt engages the flared thumbnail tang on top and threads into the trigger plate below. No sights are fitted on this pistol, typical of military pistols designed to point and shoot at close range.
The lock panel moldings and raised carving around the tang are patterned from antique examples. Behind the tang the grip of the pistol drops quickly away from the level of the barrel, making the pistol easy to point and shoot. The brass grip cap and triggerguard, as well as the ramrod pipes, are polished bright and will acquire a mellow patina with use and handling. The triggerguard is mounted with a combination of pin and screw. The backside view of the gun shows the brass sideplate with ball end finial, patterned from antique examples. Two dome headed lock bolts pass through the sideplate to engage the lock opposite, holding both lock and sideplate in position. The langets, or extension of the grip cap that run up the wrist on both sides is a common feature on military pistols of this era. The wooden ramrod is fitted with a flared brass loading tip. The ramrod is not threaded to accept any cleaning or loading accessories. We recommend our #PL-7-62 to service this pistol.
Ignition for the rifle is provided by a L&R Classic flintlock. Finished bright to match the barrel the lock plate is shaped with a pointed tail and octagon pan with external pan bridle. The lock is well positioned on the direct drilled vent hole. Below the lock a single trigger is properly pinned to give good leverage against the sear. The lock is well tuned and sparks very well when fitted with a 3/4" knapped French flint.
This French Dragoon pistol is offered in lightly used condition with a bright bore. It will be a joy to shoot at the range. If you are a French and Indian War or Revolutionary War reenactor, consider this well made dragoon pistol for your impression. Order it for a ten day visual inspection. You will be delighted. Else if it does not fit you, return it in unfired condition for same-day refund. Postage is your only risk, when you order any one-of-a-kind gun from Track, whether new, used, or antique.
