Early flintlock pistol with rare spring loaded “snap” bayonet. This type of personal defense weapon was very popular throughout Europe and especially England. This very fine example dates to approximately 1780 and is complete and functional. Usually when these pistols are found the bayonets are missing or broken and frequently such arms are not mechanically functioning. Measuring 9 ¾” overall with bayonet folded and 13 ½” with bayonet extended, this pistol reveals a fine, uncleaned “attic” condition patina overall. The lock retains both the safety half-cock position as well as the full cock or firing hammer position. When folded under the 5” octagon barrel, the spring-loaded bayonet with 3 ¼” blade section catches into the front notch of the trigger guard. To “spring” the bayonet, the trigger guard is pulled rearward by the trigger finger placed in the back of the trigger guard bow. With this movement, the bayonet springs in a forward curve and locks securely in place. Pushing the locking pin releases the bayonet for re-folding into position. This was a powerful weapon with the bore measuring just over .45 caliber. Yet, with only one shot and reloading slow for this type pistol, a bayonet for close combat was a comforting feature. All springs are strong, including the frizzen- the steel part ahead of the hammer that rotates downward to protect the priming powder in the “pan” ahead of the hammer. When the flint that is held in the jaws of the hammer contact the frizzen, sparks are produced which set off the priming powder in the pan and in turn ignite the main powder charge in the barrel via a small “touch hole” in the bottom of the pan. The receiver this pistol has an engraving pattern on each side depicting an arrow and shield motif with a star pattern on the bottom of the trigger guard. There is also border engraving on the upper tang behind the box lock mechanism of this pistol. The original wood grips appear to be rosewood. This is a very scarce pistol with folding bayonet. Only a small percentage of such arms of the period were provided with a blade of any sort. This is an exceptional example that is doubly rare in that it is complete and functional. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.