18th Century Antique Flintlock Tinder Lighter

An 18th Century antique flintlock tinder lighter.

Used to ignite tinder, a small combustible material that could be used to start a larger fire. The lighter used the action of a flint against steel to create a spark to ignite highly flammable materials such as paper, wood shavings, and cloth. 

When lit, it looked more like a portable torch than a lighter. It was neither convenient to use nor reliable. The tinder could never be relied upon to light the first time. The fuel in tinder boxes had to be coaxed to a flame by blowing into it.

This example has a steel box lock with hinged door to the left side, fruitwood butt with plain bar trigger, the left side set with a taper sconce and bipod front support.

Provenance – Ex-private collection, Yorkshire.

Condition – Good overall as per the images. The item displays well. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.

Size – Length 21 cm (8 1/4″)