A Very Small Flintlock Pocket Pistol by H. Nock of London. With turn-off barrel decorated with a band of foliage at the muzzle, engraved rounded action, struck with Birmingham proofs at the breech, signed ‘LONDON’ to one side and ‘H. NOCK’ to the other, the action decorated within panels depicting stands of arms, with sliding safety catch that also locks the pan, chequered walnut butt with vacant escutcheon. 

NOCK Henry

New pattern lock rejected by Ordnance in 1770. Gunlock smith. Made set of gauges for Gunmakers Company Proof House, 1781. Free of Gunmakers Co., by redemption 1784. Took Livery, 1795. Elected Assistant, 1798; Master 1802. Appointed Gunsmith-in-Ordinary to George III, 1789. In celebration of King's health recovery, displayed at Ludgate Hill 'an Imperial Crown, beautifully ornamented and very rich illumination of coloured lamps' (St. James's Chronicle, 25 April 1789). Made 7-barrelled rifled and pistol for Prince of Wales, 1790-2 (Royal Collection at Windsor Nos 154, 203). Contractor to Ordnance, 1771-1804; East India Co. (and Royal East India Volunteer Regt.) made 7 barrel guns, 1780; screwless lock 1786; wall piece, 1788; Duke of Richmond's Musket, 1792; Royal Horse Artillery Pistol, 1793...succeeded by James Wilkinson. 

Howard L. Blackmore (1986) Gunmakers Of London, 1350-1850. George Shumway Publisher. USA.

Dimensions:

Bore: 120-Bore

Barrel Length: 1 Inch (2.54 cm)

Overall Length: 4.25 Inch (10.79 cm)