MUMFORD BOOKS

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Antique Guns in Colour 1250-1865

£16.00

1 in stock

Additional information

Weight 384 g
Dimensions 45 × 35 × 16 mm
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Gunpowder and firearms have probably been the most significant factors in the destiny of nations until recent times and the advent of the Nuclear Age. From the fifteenth century onwards modes of warfare were seldom static, and improve¬ments in firearms naturally lead to new battlefield tactics. Even in civilian life the swords carried as a part of everyday attire by the rich and influential gradually gave way to the precision made weapons of the leading gunmakers, destined a priori for the purpose of satisfying a gentlemans honour. The text sets out to trace the firearm from its uncertain beginnings as a hand cannon or hand gonne through the development of more efficient ignition systems – matchlock, wheel lock, snap-haunce, flintlock and finally percussion which heralded the dawning of the age of the modern firearm.
The colour illustrations show not only the plain efficient weapons of the military but also the elaborately decorated civilian weapons of all shapes, uses and sizes from fowling pieces to pocket pistols and from hunting rifles to revolvers. Both layman and collector will find this a fascinating survey of the most effective weapons ever invented.
Robert Wilkinson-Lathams family connection with Wilkinson Sword Ltd., ensured his interest in guns from an early age. Founded in 1772 by Henry Nock, one of the most noted and advanced gunmakers of his time, Wilkin¬son Sword made firearms for military and civilian use part of their business operation until the 1880s and retailed sporting guns, revolvers and rifles until the beginning of the Second World War.
Specialist Photography by John Searle Austin. Colour Paintings and Line Drawings by Peter Sarson and Tony Bryan.
Slight mark on page edge and last page, jacket very good, D/J not price clipped. Book in green cloth on board with gilt lettering to spine. D/J price clipped. Book in cream cloth on board with gilt lettering to spine.