POTD: Kleft Cane Gun – London’s Ultimate Gentleman’s Multi-Tool

Welcome to immediately’s Photo of the Day! Right here we have now a W.H. Kleft telescope and flintlock cane gun manufactured within the early nineteenth century. In 1814, Kleft was granted British patent 3837 for a strolling employees containing pistol, powder, ball, screw telescope, pen, ink, paper, pencil, knife, and drawing utensils.

In the course of the early 1800s, canes have been at peak reputation amongst higher society, and lots of distinctive makes an attempt have been made including utility to strolling sticks. Kleft’s patent represented the last word gentleman’s multi-tool idea, although few examples containing all elements have been really made.

This instance incorporates a flintlock pistol, screw telescope, and oil bottle. The small folding set off screw-barrel flintlock pistol is contained throughout the high grip space. Gentle floral and martial engraving decorates the pistol marked “W.H. KLEFT/INVENTOR” and “LONDON”.

The cane includes 5 threaded sections: higher part containing the pistol, an empty part under, the telescope, one other empty part, and backside part containing oil bottle and two lead weights with gilt brass tip. The shaft sections have spiraling ribs across the whole size completed in black enamel with easy gilt brass cap on high.

Restricted examples of Kleft canes exist with varied element mixtures. The defensive pistol perform was in all probability extra novelty than sensible – a .36 caliber single-shot with folding set off wasn’t ultimate for self-defense. The telescope possible noticed extra precise use for viewing distant topics throughout walks. These canes represented standing and ingenuity in the course of the Regency and early Victorian durations when gents’s equipment reached peak elaboration.

Most of our POTDs make the most of photographs from our buddies at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms public sale in the US. Take a while to browse their current auctions – who is aware of, possibly you’ll discover a piece of historical past to take residence!

“Engraved W.H. Kleft Telescope and Flintlock Cane Pistol.” Rock Island Public sale, www.rockislandauction.com/element/4096/3277/engraved-wh-kleft-telescope-and-flintlock-cane-pistol. Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.

Sam.S

Managing Editor | AllOutdoor
Author | TheFirearmBlog Instagram | sfsgunsmith Previous soul, licensed gunsmith, revealed writer, avid firearm historical past learner, and appreciator of outdated and distinctive weapons.