Comprising an oval steel buckle plate mounted with a percussion mechanism and short, projecting barrel. The trigger finial is pierced for a lanyard, allowing it to be fired surreptitiously. Invented in England, the belt buckle pistol was designed to be worn at the waist, where it would effectively defend the wearer from a frontal attack, or at the small of the back, in the event a garrote was used; garroting was a common practice during the Victorian Era. Retaining its original leather belt, with most original black finish to the buckle. Mid 19th century. For quite similar see L. Winant, Firearms Curiosa, (1955: New York. Bonanza.) p. 152. Light wwar, buckle possibly replaced. Overall length 113.6 cm. _x000D_
Condition II_x000D_