The Balkans produced more pistols than any other region of the Ottoman Empire. The distinctive rattail stock was made primarily in Albania and exported for use throughout the Ottoman Empire. This example is of better quality than most, with a quality lock stamped with a maker’s mark. Round 12 1/8" barrel of approximately .62 cal. The wooden stock is completely covered with sheet brass engraved with arabesques, featuring decorative nails behind lock. Brass barrel band at muzzle. Steel trigger guard with applied brass decoration. Steel false ramrod. Steel parts with some pitting from age and use, but otherwise this pistol is in very good complete condition. A very good example, similar to those pictured in Fig. 112, page 159 in "Islamic Weapons, Maghrib to Moghul", by Anthony Tirri. Overall length 20 1/4".