WW1 British BEF Cogswell and Harrison Brass Flare Pistol NO PAPERS

The WW1 British BEF Cogswell and Harrison Brass Flare Pistol is an example of signalling equipment used by British Expeditionary Force personnel during the First World War. Manufactured by the well-known British firm Cogswell and Harrison, this model features a robust brass construction that provided durability and resistance to corrosion in field conditions. The flare pistol is designed with a break-action mechanism and single-shot capability, typical of British flare guns issued to officers and artillery units for communication and signalling over the battlefield. Markings commonly found on these pistols would include the manufacturer’s name and military acceptance stamps; however, this specific item is offered without any accompanying paperwork or provenance documentation. Flare pistols such as this played a crucial role in coordinating troop movements, calling for artillery support, and relaying urgent messages across trench lines. This example represents an important category of non-lethal military sidearms from the WW1 period.