Roman Lock Pistol

Iron, Copper Alloy, and Cherry Wood
Origin: Italy, ca. 1600
Context: Jamestown’s Second Well

Excavated from a waterlogged context in the fort’s 1611-1617 second well, this roman lock pistol is a technological advancement upon the snaphaunce. Its simplified design combines the frizzen and pancover into one articulating piece instead of separate elements. The pistol also has an external mainspring with a diagnostic hook that pushes down to create the force to fire. It is one of the earliest known roman lock pistols.

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related images

Archaeologist Danny Schmidt carries the pistol to the surface
Archaeologist Danny Schmidt carries the pistol to the surface.
An X-ray reveals two shot inside the barrel of the Roman flintlock pistol.
Director of Collections and Conservation Michael Lavin conserves the Roman flintlock pistol
Director of Collections and Conservation Michael Lavin conserves the Roman flintlock pistol.
Conservator Dr. Chris Wilkins conserves an isolated portion of the Roman flintlock pistol
Conservator Dr. Chris Wilkins conserves an isolated portion of the Roman flintlock pistol.

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