GROUP OF 4 RARE CANNON GUNLOCKS, 2 FRENCH AND 2 RUSSIAN.

SN 24348, 25901, 29. Cannon gunlocks are rarely found today as they became obsolete, with the advent of friction primers circa 1850, and most were salvaged for their bronze content. The British Royal Navy first used gunlocks about 1750 but the French did not adopt until the early 19th century. Several of the cannon in this auction made in the late 19th century to early 20th century have mounting holes or platforms for such locks, most of which were intended for naval use. The use of gunlocks had distinct advantages for naval warfare as ignition was rapid and the operator firing gun could stand a safe distance behind cannon such as not to be hit by its recoil by use of long lanyards. Earlier use of linstock limited the distance a gunner could stand, and in a rolling sea, a several second delay made aiming accuracy quite difficult. Every lock in this group is quite different as to design and mounting characteristics. The largest lock in this group, which has an overall length of 9″, is marked “Charleville” and has military inspection on its various parts, a 2-digit number on back “16” with proof, probably represents date of manufacture, 1816. The second French lock, which is marked “BRINGOL A PARIS” is proofed and marked “An 13”. The two Russian locks are quite diverse in their manufacture, though both have same Cyrillic makers mark as can be seen in photos. The flint mechanism being bade in 1838 and the percussion mechanism made in 1839. Both have 5-digit SNs which means the Russians had a lot of cannons in the 1830’s but these are the only two locks we know of. This group would most likely be close to impossible to duplicate again. PROVENANCE: Bill Cobb Collection, Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. All appear functional except Russian dated 1838 flintlock is quite stiff and tight. Markings all discernible. Brass and iron patinas. 4-54185-1 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 2109

Auction: Firearms - March 2015

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	2109	$4,140.00	GROUP OF 4 RARE CANNON GUNLOCKS, 2 FRENCH AND 2 RUSSIAN. SN 24348, 25901, 29. Cannon gunlocks are rarely found today as they became obsolete, with the advent of friction primers circa 1850, and most were salvaged for their bronze content. The British Royal Navy first used gunlocks about 1750 but the French did not adopt until the early 19th century. Several of the cannon in this auction made in the late 19th century to early 20th century have mounting holes or platforms for such locks, most of which were intended for naval use. The use of gunlocks had distinct advantages for naval warfare as ignition was rapid and the operator firing gun could stand a safe distance behind cannon such as not to be hit by its recoil by use of long lanyards. Earlier use of linstock limited the distance a gunner could stand, and in a rolling sea, a several second delay made aiming accuracy quite difficult. Every lock in this group is quite different as to design and mounting characteristics. The largest lock in this group, which has an overall length of 9″, is marked “Charleville” and has military inspection on its various parts, a 2-digit number on back “16” with proof, probably represents date of manufacture, 1816. The second French lock, which is marked “BRINGOL A PARIS” is proofed and marked “An 13”. The two Russian locks are quite diverse in their manufacture, though both have same Cyrillic makers mark as can be seen in photos. The flint mechanism being bade in 1838 and the percussion mechanism made in 1839. Both have 5-digit SNs which means the Russians had a lot of cannons in the 1830’s but these are the only two locks we know of. This group would most likely be close to impossible to duplicate again. PROVENANCE: Bill Cobb Collection, Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Very good overall. All appear functional except Russian dated 1838 flintlock is quite stiff and tight. Markings all discernible. Brass and iron patinas. 4-54185-1 (5,000-10,000) – Lot 2109 Auction: Firearms - March 2015 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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GROUP OF 4 RARE CANNON GUNLOCKS, 2 FRENCH AND 2 RUSSIAN.