Original Belgian 14 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Fowling Piece with Twist Forged Barrel for the U.S. Frontier Market – circa 1850 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This Belgian-made 14 bore fowling piece / shotgun is unsigned on the exterior, but is most likely intended for the U.S. Frontier market, which was booming during the 1850s. Domestic production could not keep up with the demand, so fowlers were imported in some quantities from Europe. The fowling piece features all iron mounts with simple line engraving around the edges, except for the barrel wedge escutcheons, which are nickel silver. The gun has an overall length of 45 ½ inches, with double 30 ½ inch barrels. It has been fully cleaned and restored to put it in its best light.

There are no markings at all on the exterior of the gun, except for TWIST on the barrel rib near the breech end, indicating that the barrel is twist forged. The spiral pattern on the exterior of the barrel is still readily apparent, and this method of barrel production resulted in stronger steel. The barrel wedge comes out somewhat easily, and the bottom of the barrel bears the E / L G / * in an Oval proof, indicating manufacture in Liège, Belgium. The left side of the barrel assembly also has the “Perron” Tower of Liège proof from Belgium as well. This small country, which only gained independence in the early 19th century, had long been a firearms production powerhouse, with Liège being the center of manufacturing. There is the number 6923 stamped on the bottom of the center strap just forward of the barrel wedge fitting, and there are various other numbers, which may be the specifications of the barrels.

Overall condition is good, with strong checkering around the wrist, and and a great used look. The metalwork is in very good shape, showing a lovely aged blue patina, now faded from age and wear. Both locks function, however neither holds at half cock, probably due to wear on the tumblers. The cap nipple cones are both in good shape, though they do not match, so one was replaced at some point. There is a wooden ramrod under the the barrel, but it is definitely not original to the gun.

A typical example of what many Americans carried on the frontier, in worn condition and ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber:  14 gauge / bore (.693″)
Cartridge Type: Cap and Powder with Shot
Barrel Length: 30 ½ Inches
Overall Length: 45 ½ Inches
Action type: Back Action Percussion Locks
Feed System: Muzzle Loaded

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