Flintlock dueling pistols have always had a mystique to them, and their general high quality compared to other firearms of the same period has made them particularly desirable on the collector market. This pair from the early 19th century are certainly fine examples and would have also been suitable for service by a military officer. The smoothbore Damascus barrels have low profile dovetailed blade front sights, "SYKES OXFORD" inscribed on top at the breech, and platinum bands and vent liners. They are secured by single wedges accented by silver escutcheons. The advanced, "waterproof" flintlocks have engraved borders and accents, sliding safety catches, frizzen rollers, and are signed "SYKES." The pistols also have single set triggers, braid pattern lock screw washers rather than side plates, engraved upper tangs with fixed, low profile notch sights, and blued trigger guards with pineapple finials and martial pattern engraved bows. The half-stocks have horn caps, checkered wrists, and bag shaped butts without caps. They come in a fitted hardwood case with brass hardware that contains: a ramrod, small powder flask with cap/ball compartment, ball mold, a few lead balls, and spare flints.

Very good with an old period refinished brown on the barrel which has distinct Damascus patterns and some faint pitting, subtle original case colors on the lock and breech, natural aged patina on the silver, 50% of the refinished blue finish on the trigger guard and rear ramrod pipe, re-attached front ramrod pipe, and mild overall wear. The stock is very good with crisp checkering, smooth oiled finish, and many light scratches and pressure marks, particularly on the left flat. Mechanically excellent.

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Very good with an old period refinished brown on the barrel along with visible Damascus patterns and some speckled pitting, light original case colors on the lock and breech, 60% of the period refinished blue finish on the trigger guard and rear ramrod pipe, aged patina on the silver, and mild overall wear. The stock is very good and has some slight cracking and loose fit of the horn cap, smooth oiled finish, scratches and pressure marks concentrated on the left side, and very crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The relined case is fine and has a reproduction label and generally mild storage wear. The accessories are good with some functional issues with the flask and otherwise generally age related wear. This is an attractive pair of pistols that would have certainly been intimidating to face in any circumstance.