Collecting

Collecting full-action models of small arms is a widespread centuries-long passion.

Collecting miniature weapons of the past which reproduce those manufactured by the world's renowned weapon companies is today not only an interesting and respectful but also prestigious occupation.

One of the earliest miniatures — a wheel lock musket — appeared in England as early as in XV century.

The European tradition of miniature weapon manufacture was part of the training process of skilled gun-makers. An apprentice was supposed to produce a scaled-down model in order to be recognized as an accomplished craftsman and demonstrate impeccable quality of his work.

In Russia, one of the earliest mentions of these weapons dates back to 1810 when Prince Dolgorukov was offered a pair of flintlock pistols weighing only 13 grams each during his visit to Tula.

A while ago, graduates of the Mikhailovskoye Artillery Academy were obliged to produce a miniature full-action model of a firearm on completion of studies. Now these miniature weapons displayed in museums of Saint-Petersburg strike visitors not only because they are so true to the original but by also by their amazing decorations.

A tradition to make gifts of miniature weapons to persons of royal dignity existed in Russia for many years. A set of three 1/4 scale full-action Mosin rifles presented to Emperor Nicholas II in March of 1897 by gun.