Georgian English Flintlock Tinder Lighter, Pistol Form by John Burgon, London
Date/Period: Circa 1790

Measurement: Overall length: 7.75"

Material: Walnut grip, brass frame

Condition: All the iron hardware is dull brown, lightly oxidized patina, the top jaw, and
its screw are later replacements. Perhaps there was once a rest that may have been
removed many years ago. The brass displays an overall dull tarnished goldenrod-ochre
patina Typical dings to grip. Displays well.

Additional Information: The boxlock frame is engraved and marked ''London'' right
and ''Burgon'' left. [John Burgon; hardware man, cutler, gunmaker and flint dealer;
contractor to ordinance and Hudson’s Bay Company…active 1790-1822 when the name
was changed to John Burgon & Sons.] This brass-frame tinder lighter with combustion
reservoir has a 2.75-inch storage barrel for the tinder and spills with a turned hinged
cover plate. The bag-shaped English walnut grip rates good to perhaps very good
showing typical minor vestiges of time and use. The action is tight and smooth as it
should be.

308-597