These rather dangerous toys were popular with children in the early 17th century. Based on the matchlock petronels of the period, these toys were working miniature firearms. Using a miniature ramrod, the hollow barrel could be packed with gunpowder and shot, then fired by igniting the touch hole at the side. The handle and barrel are engraved with annulets and the handle is slightly curved. This is a very fine example with a smooth, even dark brown patina. Often these objects turn up badly damaged after the barrel has blown up due to over-packing with gunpowder. I can't imagine many parents allowing their children to play with one of these nowadays! 

Reference: Benet's Artefacts of England and the United Kingdom, Third Edition: P23-0210.