“Flintlock” pistols were so called because the lock uses a flint to strike sparks into the priming pan when the trigger is pulled. A small amount of gunpowder in this pan is ignited, which in turn ignites the main gunpowder charge in the barrel, firing the lead ball. Both the main charge and the ball were loaded from the front, or muzzle, of the barrel, after which the priming charge was poured into the pan – all very time consuming! Often the priming charge would burn but fail to ignite the main charge – whence the expression “flash in the pan”! The Brass Trimmed Blunderbuss is based on known designs of the era. Decorated with a skull and crossbones like our Pirate Flintlock Pistol, this non-firing flared barrel replica is great for the piratically inclined! Not for heavy use, mild imperfections add to the charm, make them look more authentic. Measures over 12 inches long.  Having the most natural carved wood of all the replica pistols makes this a little more expensive but so much more authentic!