Simple Key Pistol

Published on February 14, 2016
Duration: 3:49

This video from Forgotten Weapons, hosted by Ian McCollum, explores a unique Key Pistol, an antique firearm disguised as a key. The discussion highlights its potential use by prison guards for concealed defense and details its simple firing mechanism, which relies on an external heat source to ignite the powder through a touch hole. The pistol is presented as a historical curiosity with limited information available, featured as part of an auction lot.

Quick Summary

The Key Pistol is a unique antique firearm disguised as a key, theorized to be used by prison guards for concealed defense. This specific model features a simple touch hole ignition system, requiring an external heat source like a lit cigar to fire. It represents a fascinating piece of historical ingenuity in firearm design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Key Pistol at Rock Island Auction
  2. 00:39Design and Theory of Use
  3. 01:27Firing Mechanism: Touch Hole Ignition
  4. 02:12Variations of Key Guns
  5. 03:11Conclusion and Auction Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Key Pistol and how did it work?

A Key Pistol is an antique firearm disguised as a key. The model discussed features a hollow shaft barrel and a simple touch hole for ignition, requiring an external heat source like a lit cigar to fire a projectile. It's theorized they were used by prison guards for concealed defense.

Where can I find unique antique firearms like the Key Pistol?

Unique antique firearms like the Key Pistol are often found through specialized auctions. Rock Island Auction Company is a prominent venue for such items, and channels like Forgotten Weapons showcase these historical pieces.

What makes the Key Pistol unique compared to other antique firearms?

The Key Pistol's uniqueness lies in its disguise as a functional key and its extremely simple firing mechanism, often relying solely on a touch hole for ignition rather than complex internal parts like flintlocks or matchlocks.

Who is Ian McCollum and what is Forgotten Weapons?

Ian McCollum is the host of the YouTube channel Forgotten Weapons, where he provides expert analysis and historical context on unusual and rare firearms from various eras, demonstrating deep knowledge of firearm mechanics and history.

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