JCastaway- Unknown Ball Trigger Musket 1.jpg

This firearm is a remarkable example of Ottoman craftsmanship from the 18th century, reflecting both the technological and artistic achievements of the period. The Shishana’s miquelet lock and ball trigger design are distinctive features that set it...

JCastaway-Unknown-0013-barrel-01.jpg

Identification: This is the barrel of a smoothbore percussion muzzleloader, likely a fowling piece or a military carbine, manufactured in Liège, Belgium, in the early 1850s (circa 1853, based on the 5/13 marking and E C proof). The 10.8 mm bore (roughly...

JCastaway-unknown-small-flintlock-mechanism-1.jpg

This item was simply labeled found metal detecting in Canada, and it’s a fascinating yet puzzling little object. In its current state, the mechanism is entirely stuck, and although it appears to be fully functional, there are hints that it might...