HORSEHEAD DAGGER PISTOL (22-1023) by DENIX
This weapon is a reproduction of an actual English flintlock pistol dagger that was made in London in the early 18th century. The blade is made from zinc-alloy with a weathered antiqued finish. The hardware is brass and features an etched, simulated ivory handle. A 3 3/4 inch brass barrel hides behind the 11 inch blade and a regal horse head holds the hanging ring in it's mouth. The locks and trigger are fully functional (that is, you can cock it and activate the firing mechanism by squeezing the trigger), although the gun cannot actually be fired. Perfect for costumes and wonderful conversation piece.

Often a ships captain would have a pistol sword or dagger commissioned for him as a sign of his superiority. A gunsmith would decorate the stock with silver and gold or ornate carvings. The doghead would be carved in some ornate fashion or perhaps be shaped like a lion, unicorn or some animal from the royal crest of the owner. In many ways such weapons in the 18th century would hold the same place of honor as a luxury car or expensive watch might today.

The pistol of the day was a flintlock mechanism which fired exactly like the rifles. A single shot loaded via the front of the barrel. Rarely would two men lock blades together with their faces inches apart as depicted in the movies. If one were to get that close, a dagger would most certainly have come into play. With its built-in flintlock pistol, the Dagger Pistol offered a pirate double protection and could prove very handy in battle or intimidating victims.