The English flintlock blunderbuss, derived from the Dutch term *donderbus* (or "Thunderbox), traces its origins to the late 16th century as a smoothbore, muzzleloading weapon which featured a short barrel with a flared muzzle. While often attributed to the expansion of shot patterns, the flared muzzle was actually designed to facilitate the loading of multiple projectiles—such as buckshot, scrap metal, or nails—while in confined spaces or on horseback. A majority of blunderbusses feature brass barrels as brass was easy to cast with a the distinctive flared muzzle that characterized the blunderbuss.
By the 1780s, English gunsmiths began integrating folding bayonets into blunderbuss designs. John Waters patented a folding bayonet mechanism in 1781, which led to an increase in popularity and production. These bayonets were spring-loaded to fold against the barrel or beneath the stock when not in use. Deployment methods varied, utilizing secondary triggers, catches, or a sliding trigger guard to release the blade. The bayonet provided an obvious melee capability if the gun misfired, but was likely utilized more for intimidation than actual combat. Bayonet-equipped blunderbusses became a favorite defensive tool for coachmen in England as a deterrent against highwaymen. Because the weapon was more compact and portable than a full-length musket, yet possessed a larger bore and greater intimidation factor than a standard pistol, it was effective for guarding stagecoaches and mail transport. Royal Mail coaches often carried a guard equipped with a blunderbuss and a pair of flintlock pistols to secure the mail. Some surviving examples have been encountered with the name of the coach or with inscriptions meant to discourage attackers, such as “FLY OR DIE”.
The prevalence of the flintlock blunderbuss declined by the mid-19th century. The introduction of percussion guns and advancements in manufacturing technology allowed double-barreled shotguns which offered an obvious advantage of two shots, to superseding the single-shot blunderbuss. Additionally, by the Victorian era, the modernization of law enforcement and improved infrastructure reduced the necessity for these defensive weapons, leading to their removal from general service.
This particular blunderbuss was made in the late 18th Century and remains in excellent condition. It is all original and in excellent condition. It a brass barrel that flares to more than 1.5" at the muzzle to facilitated easier loading while mounted. Its robust breech could handle a variety of loads and projectiles, everything from buckshot to solid round ball; and after its ammunition was expended, the user could always deploy its rather intimidating 12" bayonet.
It was made by English gunmaker John King, who operated in London, and later Ipswich from 1770 to 1790. The barrel of this handsome blunderbuss is marked "Ipswich" so it is likely that it was produced by King closer to the end of his career in the late 1780's after he relocated his shop to Ipswich in 1785. The presence of some "late period" characteristics such as a checkered wrist and roller frizzen spring, would also support this timeline, as these features didn't gain wide spread popularity until the mid 1780s.
This handsome piece is all original and in excellent mechanical condition. The barrel features so light engraving and the word "Ipswich" is delicately engraved near the breech.
The lock works well. The cock holds solid on both full and half cock and the frizzen spring is crisp; providing the frizzen with a good "snap" when opened and closed.
The stock is very good with crisp edges and well-defined checkering. There is no real damage to speak of other than a few "handling marks".
The original horn-tipped ram rod is intact and in good condition. The spring loaded bayonet deploys when the latch is pulled and latches firmly in place.
These large brass-barreled blunderbuss pistols are quite rare and have become quite desirable on the collector market. Don't miss out on this excellent gun for an even more excellent price!
