German cutlery combined with flintlock pistols (first quarter
of the 18th century) knife with slightly curved, single-edged iron blade, engraved with spirals, followed by rings with a baluster-shaped neck.
Fork with two prongs with square cross-section, with baluster-shaped neck en suite with the knife.
The brass handle of both pieces also consists of a flintlock pistol; with 11 mm cal. Barrel with shaped muzzle, outer iron hammer with engraved neck.
Outside brass pan, iron battery and the spring at the front of the handle, while the large spring and the trigger (the barrel is directed on the opposite side of the blade) are placed externally at the
back.
And you have to wonder what kind of environment required to have two guns literally at hand while eating or if this is just a German version of Redneck engineering after consulting with Florida Man.
One wonders how you’d cut a tough flank steak without blasting yourself in the forearms after you accidentally hit the trigger. Especially after multiple beers. More likely a case of a craftsman doing something odd and eye-catching to advertise his skills through period advertising. Like the 3/4 sized suits of armor that periodically turn up from the medieval times that convinced everyone that people back then were really short due to malnutrition. Except that the 3/4 sized armor was simply an advertisement for the smith who crafted it, so potential buyers could evaluate the quality.
Don’t shoot this from the hip…..
Definitely redneck engineering with support from FL man.
The barrels are pointing at your chest. If it were actually meant to be used, the barrels would face away from the user.
Simply showing off.
If you ever visit Germany visit the museums, like the GNM in Nuremberg, where they have such historic pieces.
16th century wheel lock watches?
Shooting cutlery?
The whole nativity scene carved into an walnut?
There is a lot to criticize about the guilds but they bred the finest craftsmen of their age.
Thinks like that are not meant to be practical – it’s a showpiece.