Rare Girardoni Pneumatic, Air Rifle, Austria, Last Quarter of the 18th Century. An exceptionally well-preserved example of the famous Girardoni air rifle, developed in Austria during the late 18th century. This innovative firearm was notably used by the Austrian army during the Napoleonic Wars, valued for its ability to fire without producing smoke, its near-silent discharge, and its reliability in damp conditions -features that made it particularly suited for sniper operations. The Girardoni system was ahead of its time, utilizing a detachable compressed air reservoir housed in the buttstock. It could fire multiple shots in rapid succession, giving it a significant advantage over muzzle-loaded black powder weapons. This model also gained renown beyond Europe: British explorers carried it into Africa, and the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition used it during their journey across the American West, demonstrating its capabilities to Native American tribes along the way. Steel octagonal barrel, Austrian acceptance mark on brass plate on top. The metal butt - air reservoir. Constructed with a wooden stock and brass fittings, this rifle remains in excellent original condition. Unrestored and complete, it is a rare and desirable collector's piece that illustrates a pivotal chapter in pneumatic and firearms development. Total length: 123 cm. Caliber: 10 mm.