9mm Collette Gravity pistol, serial number L134, 8inch octagonal micro groove rifled barrel bearing number VC1700, with full-length gravity-fed magazine on top, rising breech, the central hammer with safety bar, the frame with fine scroll engraving and fluted walnut grip carved with leafwork, number xxx on the inside of the grip.

The gravity pistol was manufactured by Victor Collette and designed by J. Hermann (see 1854 patent); it used a caseless cartridge. To fire, the breech-block is raised by half-cocking the hammer and pointing the muzzle upwards, thus letting the cartridge "fall" into the chamber, seating the bullet, pulling the hammer to full cock automatically snaps the breech-block down and back into position, sealing the breech of the barrel. The firing charge, more powerful than usual primer, was contained inside the Loron or Fusnot style bullet itself. These caseless cartridge bullets were powerful enough not just for target shooting but also take small game and self-defence. Most seem to have been made by Victor Collette although other examples from other makers are known, all seldom seen. See International Ammunition Association journal: IAA 550 March/April 2023, Winant: Firearms Curiosa, and HBSA Report, March 2024.

Section 58 (2) Antique / obsolete calibre, can be owned without a licence. Buyer must be over the age of 18, age verification will be required.

Dimensions: 38cm long