Jacob Kuchenreuter Flintlock Holster Pistols Pair ca. 1760 Antique, Gilded
SOLD FOR: $2,525.00
LSB#: LSB250731KK009 & LSB250731KK011
Make: Jacob Kuchenreuter
Model: Flintlock Holster Pistols (Matched Pair)
Serial Number: Numbered “1” and “2”
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1760
Caliber: Approximately .54 caliber smoothbore
Action Type: Flintlock, Single Shot
Markings: The top flats of the octagonal barrels are engraved “JACOB KUCHENREUTER,” surrounded by intricate scrollwork and borders. Each breech bears a gold-inlaid cartouche depicting a mounted horseman, the signature Kuchenreuter mark. The tangs are engraved “1” and “2.” The brass furniture is chased with Rococo acanthus and floral motifs, and the walnut stocks are carved in low relief around the lock panels and tangs.
Barrel Length: 9 ¾” (Octagonal)
Sights / Optics:
Rear Sight: Three-position leaf sight (first leaf, second leaf, third leaf) mounted on the tang/top flat for selectable elevation.
Front Sight: Small fixed front blade dovetailed to the top flat.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Each pistol is carved from select European walnut and retains a full-stocked configuration. The one-piece stocks show raised floral relief around the lock panels and tangs. There are age-consistent shrinkage checks, minor surface cracks, and small period repairs. Overall, the wood shows a rich, dark patina and handling wear appropriate to an 18th-century holster pair.
Butt & Fore-end Details: Polished horn caps are present at the fore-end tips, properly inletted. Ramrod thimbles are brass and remain fitted to the fore-ends.
Furniture / Fastening: The brass furniture, including butt caps, ramrod pipes, and side plates, shows fine chasing with deep, even patina. Each pistol has a small inletted latch slot atop the wrist, consistent with mounting points for detachable shoulder stocks seen on select Kuchenreuter officer’s pistols. The fittings appear original and correctly positioned, suggesting the pair may once have been accompanied by stocked attachments.
Touch Holes / Pans: Touch holes and pans show gilt treatment at the breeches, a deluxe feature associated with higher-grade Kuchenreuter work. Frizzens and pan lips are intact with patinated surfaces and expected age wear.
Type of Finish: Blued barrels (remnants of original royal-blue fire finish), gilt cartouches, brass furniture, and case-hardened lock components.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are smooth with moderate oxidation and light pitting consistent with age.
Overall Condition: Very Good for the period. The barrels retain portions of the original royal-blue finish with etched/engraved scrollwork visible along the top flats. The gold-inlaid cartouches are distinct. Locks operate freely and hold at half- and full-cock. Stocks show age-related checks and minor losses but remain solid and stable. The brass furniture is well-fitted and evenly aged.
Mechanics: Both locks function; cocks hold at half- and full-cock and frizzens operate as intended. We did not fire these pistols. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: None.
Our Assessment:
This matched pair is a textbook example of mid-18th-century Bavarian holster pistols from the Kuchenreuter workshop. The term “holster pistol” refers to the large, full-stocked flintlock pistols carried in saddle holsters by officers or mounted troops—typically built in matched pairs, such as this set. The presence of a three-leaf rear sight, gilt touch-holes, horn caps, and wrist-top latch slots for detachable shoulder stocks underscores both the presentation quality and practical officer’s configuration of these arms.
The gold-inlaid mounted rider cartouches and full-length scrollwork are signature elements of Jacob Kuchenreuter’s finest Regensburg work. These pistols show the hallmarks that made the Kuchenreuter name celebrated across Europe: elegant carving, fire-blued barrels, refined locks, and tasteful Rococo furniture. They match beautifully in engraving, contour, and patina, standing as an exceptional representation of Bavarian gunmaking artistry in the 18th century. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to review the item’s condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. –K.F.
