Pair of pommel guns

A pair of 18th century pommel guns. Louis XV period. Percussion system modified in the 19th century.

The pommel gun is a hand firearm used by horsemen. Its name comes from the fact that it was stored in a holder attached to the saddle tree and not on the rider himself. It appeared in Europe during the 17th century. It is a single-shot weapon generally used in pairs and intended for close combat. It is loaded through the barrel.