Need an expert

by julianpam Wed Mar 06, 2019 1:35 am

julianpam: Fresh Blood
Doesn't mean
I'm new to crossbows; Posts : 2
Join date : 2019-03-06

Post n°1

Need an expert

by julianpam Wed Mar 06, 2019 1:35 am

Hi Guys

My family has had a very beautiful crossbow in its possession for many years. it was passed down from my great grandfather who collected all sorts of arms.

We know next to nothing about it and would greatly appreciate any help to discover more about it.

We also have a bolt that has followed it and the original loading mechanism (witch I do not have pictures of at this point.

by kenh Wed Mar 06, 2019 5:04 am

kenh

kenh: Crossbow Junkie
I live here!; Posts : 883
Join date : 2012-08-03
Age : 75
Location : Living Aboard a Sailboat in Fort Myers, FL

Post n°2

Re: Need an expert

by kenh Wed Mar 06, 2019 5:04 am

Is your family Italian? As a part-time heraldry buff, I find very interesting the "coat of arms" on the backstrap behind the bolt clip. A peacock's head is certainly not common in English/Scottish/French heraldry, and neither is a dog's head, especially when facing opposite that of most heraldic animals. Also a Bend Sinister (the diagonal band) is very uncommon, although the Baton (stick) on it is known.

by **Geezer** Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:23 am

Geezer

Geezer: Master Crossbowyer; Posts : 1194
Join date : 2010-01-12
Age : 76
Location : Austin, Texas, USA

Post n°3

Re: Need an expert

by Geezer Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:23 am

That's a good quality German style 'claplock' target bow (with a target bolt) Is spans with a 'wippe' cocking lever. Could date anywhere from 1500s to 1800s. Maybe a product of the shops in Dresden? This type of bow was popular there for competition shooting. Very nice piece... we're all quite jealous. Geezer.