Shermuly Line throwing pistol was first produced around 1920. The pistol is based on the Webley & Scott brass flare pistol, with a steel barrel extension to take a rocket that would propel a wire over distance. The wire could be attached to a cable to help transfer people from ship to ship or shore to ship. The system was invented by Alfred James Schermuly born in 1857 an inventor and seaman of Dutch origin. In 1897 he produced his first experimental ship’s line-throwing appliance. This flare gun based launchers replaced purpose built cannon and rockets used earlier. William Schermuly's previous line throwing inventions were pretty bulky and he wanted to perfect a device which a child could use. The flare gun launcher fits the bill. His invention was usually ignored by the Admiralty, but by 1922 was used by 22 leading shipping lines. source: http://www.cyber-heritage.co.uk/schermuly/ Please note: Selling weapons to persons below the age of 18 is prohibited. Item offered without powdercatridges!! Complete box 23 kg - 75cm/45cm LOA pistol 50 cm Barrel 40 cm rocketcartouche 18 cm