Here is a French Gendarme flintlock pistol dated 1771 made by the renowned gunmaker, Charleville.  It has a 5-inch barrel with walnut stock and wood ramrod.  The top of the barrel bears the faint engraving "1771" and the letter "M" stamped along with numbers "71" on the side of the barrel opposite the hammer.  All parts are original but the internal mechanism is worn and won't hold in the cocking position.  The rear of the stock retains traces of a name inked into the wood.  Nice 18th century Gendarme piece.