Signal pistol (flare pistol)

Hand-held signal (flare) pistol used by aircrew and navigators to fire parachute and signal flares for distress or location marking. Revolving or single-shot barrel assembly with brass firing/arming mechanism and threaded/knobbed breech control. Body has a dark painted finish; brass components (firing assembly) visible at rear of barrel. The piece is an example of a Mk IV signal pistol manufactured in the U.S. and supplied for parachute and signal flares during World War II era.