Bidspirit auction | A RARE PROBABLY ENGLISH 18TH

A RARE PROBABLY ENGLISH 18TH CEN. HAND GRENADE LAUNCHER - A Continental (English) flintlock hand mortar or grenade launcher with a brass turned barrel, engraved steel lockplate and engraved brass embellishments, set into a carved walnut stock. The muzzle has the following English motto on the rim: ”HAPPY IS HE THAT ESCAPETH ME”.Cal. 2.5 in., (62 mm.)Footnote: The earliest known hand mortars or grenade launchers were of the Wheellocks construction in the 16th century. Dimensions: L: 24 1/4 in., (61.5 cm.) Condition: Perfect for the age. No restoration, original sling.