Matched pair of pocket pistols by H Nock circa 1790.

This is a very good pair of matched flintlock turnoff pistols made by Henry Nock of London. A good example of Nock's general trade work the pistol locks are engraved 'H Nock' on one side and 'London' on the other and exhibit London proof marks. Nock was a prolific inventor and is best known for his formidable multi-barrelled volley guns which were purchased by the Royal Navy and in recent years brought back to public notice by the TV series Sharpe in which Sergeant Harper carries a Nock Volley Gun. There is an interesting and erudite article on Nock and his volley guns in the Gun Report magazine of October 1967.