From the matchlock to the revolver, from single shots to early automatics, this book presents the history of pistols using real weapons reproduced in actual-sized photographs. The changing mechanisms, technical evolution, and different types of pistols are presented in a volume essential to all collectors and fans, complete with explanatory diagrams, historical curiosities, and references. Examples came from the Civic Museum in Venice, Italy; the Royal Armoury in Turin, Italy; the Victoria and Albert Museum in London; the Tojusmuseet Army Museum in Copenhagen; and, many other museums and private collections.
