Rare Iron Pivoting Barb Whaling Harpoon used with Hand Held Muzzle Loading Gun c1900

Here on offer is a very rare and fine example of an iron metal whaling harpoon that would have been used with a muzzle loading, hand held whaling harpoon gun, circa 1900.

This original harpoon has working pivoting barbs at the arrowhead and still retains its original sliding iron ring that was used to attach the line.

The harpoon's shank terminates in a cylindrical knob that is fitted with a copper collar. This was designed to fit snugly into the guns barrel with the iron ring moved all the way up to the arrowhead.

This example still retains the section of lead that is located at the end of the slider near the copper collar to act as a buffer, for when the ring was forced back after it was fired.

Just a brief history of the harpoon gun.

The harpoon gun was invented in 1731 but early designs were difficult to use, and often dangerous. Between 1772 and 1792 the Society of Arts awarded prizes for improvements to the harpoon gun. The result was a marked improvement in design and by the early 1800s guns could throw a harpoon over 40 yards. These guns were muzzleloaders and fired black powder. The swivel mounted barrel, made of wrought iron, 24-26 inches in length, and with a bore of 1 and 7/8 inches. Guns were supplied with two locks which fired together to reduce the chance of a miss-fire. The harpoon's shank terminated in a cylindrical knob that fitted snugly into the barrel and the line was attached by means of a wire ring.

It is in excellent condition for its age, the iron now has an overall pitted finish and has been protected with the application of some clear Renaissance Wax, as used by museums.

The harpoon measures 25.5” (64.7cm) long and the approximate diameter of the cylindrical knob is 0.67” (1.7cm).

It weighs a heavy 675g.

An early whaling collectible which are almost never found. It makes a wonderful display item!

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 51016