In the early 20th century, a sport that predates modern paintball combat by more than half a century was created. First wax bullets were invented in France for the purpose of realistic firearms training, but they became popular in a different arena. Rather than full on simulated combat, wax bullet firing pistols were used for old fashion single shot duels. Though fencing, which pre-dates the use of pistols in duels of honor, had been a taught since at least the mid-17th century in part as preparation for real combat and in part for sport, it was not until 1880 that the first regular fencing competitions were organized. As interest in fencing was revitalized the idea of dueling in general certainly gained more interest, and many accounts of wax bullet pistol duels from the era suggest fencing groups were among those who enjoyed the sport. By 1908 pistol dueling with wax bullets was popular enough in the Summer Olympics. Shortly thereafter the sport faded into obscurity because the sport proved dangerous to contestants and spectators. Famed American marksman Walter Winans, for example, shot a wax bullet through the webbing of the hand of his fellow competitor and also received several minor flesh wounds himself in other contests. This pair of pistols closely matches some seen in pictures from the 1908 games. They are side lever break actions with rifled barrels, dovetailed blade and notch sights, attachable cup hand guards similar to those used on swords, checkered walnut forearms and grips, and "+ORVAL_101 RUE ST LAZARE _PARIS+" marked on the top barrel flats. They have Belgian proofmarks and each have the same serial number on the right side of the grip near the bottom. They come in a hardwood case that contains two hand guards, two boxes of ammunition, and a six round cartridge block. The case has a French style fit and green baize lining. A "pillow" rests between the guns and the guards.

Excellent with 95% plus blue and casehardened finish remaining overall. There are only some light handling and storage marks throughout and some slight oxidation on the trigger guard. The action functions perfectly, and the markings are crisp. The case is fine with only slight storage wear overall and some staining and a minor tear on the "pillow."

As discussed in A.

Very fine. 90% plus of the original blue finish, 99% of the muted case colors, and 40% of the original blue finish remains. There are some minor marks and dings. The stock is also very fine with crisp checkering and a few minor pressure marks and scratches. The lock functions excellently, and the markings are crisp.