Made by Denix, these ornamental replicas of famous and antique guns each incorporating a firing mechanism which endeavors to simulate the workings of the original piece in every possible way. Construction is generally of high-grade casting alloy, with genuine hardwoods used where applicable. Wonderful room decorations and conversation pieces. Popular for collectors, re-enactors and theatrical presentations. Flintlocks may be any type of small arm: long gun or pistol, smoothbore or rifle, muzzleloader or breechloader. Because of the time needed to reload, these weapons were sometimes produced with two, three, four or more barrels; however, multiple-barreled weapons were never very popular. Flintlock is the general term for any firearm based on the flintlock mechanism. Introduced about 1630, the flintlock rapidly replaced earlier firearm-ignition technologies, such as the matchlock and wheellock mechanisms. It continued to be in common use for over two centuries, replaced by percussion cap and, later, cartridge-based systems in the early-to-mid 19th century. |
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