3448

EARLY 17TH TO 18TH CENTURY COLONIAL COMBINATION

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 2,500.00 USD
EARLY 17TH TO 18TH CENTURY COLONIAL COMBINATION

LINSTOCK & MATCHLOCK REST. Overall length: 54". Width of head: 6 1/2". A rare example of a colonial combination linstock and matchlock rest that commonly falls into the category of polearms. This seldom encountered polearm was likely used by a cannoneer as it has a linstock on one side that held a "match" to ignite a cannon. A "match" consisted of a gunpowder impregnated rope that burned slowly and allowed the cannoneer to fire after loading was complete. The other side has been forged into a purely decorative spiral. The U shaped rest in the center was used to support the front of the heavy matchlock musket during aiming and firing. This was instrumental in helping the cannoneer to defend himself and his gun during an enemy advance. The polearm has a handforged head that screws in to a hand forged socket in the top of the pole. The base of the pole has a metal cap with a 6 sided appendage that aids in grounding the pole. The original wooden haft appears to be oak. CONDITION: iron has an overall dark patina. Wood is complete with some noticeable shrinkage. (02-17782/BF). $1,500-2,500.