
North African Matchlock Jezail Camel Gun - .65 Cal Smoothbore with 40.5” barrel
You may have not a stitch of interest in these, but they fascinate me! This is weaponry history combined with century old Middle Eastern artistry. This is the third one in my "collection". The other two aren't up yet. One is only about 20" long, but so ornately inlayed.
Anyway, this one is for sale.
Make: North African
Model: Matchlock Jezail
Year of Manufacture: 17th century parts
Caliber: Approximately .65 caliber, Smoothbore
Action Type: Matchlock (Non-Functioning)
Barrel Length: 40.5 inches
Overall Length: 53 inches
The wood stock features ornate brass inlays, including designs of diamonds, circles, arrows, and mandalas, particularly near the lock area. Some brass ornaments are missing due to age, and verdigris is forming on many of the brass components. The fore end has cracks, but the stock remains structurally sound. The overall condition reflects significant wear and aging, consistent with its historical context. Original Finish Lost; Surfaces Display Rust and a Brown Patina. The lock does not function and requires repair.
Bore Condition: The bore is in poor condition, heavily eroded and corroded, with no functionality. In this writer’s opinion, it rates 1/10.
This piece is for display only.
This North African Matchlock Jezail Camel Gun is a historical piece often associated with the tribal regions of the Middle East and North Africa. Designed for use from camelback, jezails were prized for their ornate craftsmanship and often served as both functional weapons and displays of status.
This example features a 40.5-inch smoothbore barrel in approximately .65 caliber, adorned with intricate brass inlays, including mandalas and geometric shapes. The verdigris on the brass and the brown patina on the metal components testify to its age. While the stock has some cracks, it remains structurally sound, and the ramrod is present but broken.
It offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and cultural significance of jezails in the regions where they were used. This jezail would make an excellent addition to a collection of historical or ethnographic firearms, ideal for display or as a conversation piece reflecting its storied past.
Luke 22:36: "But now, whoever has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and whoever has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one".