Original 19th Century U.S. Underhammer Percussion .38 Caliber Sporting Gun – Circa 1845 Original Items

Original item: Only One Available. Here we have a very nice example of an American single shot hunting gun, utilizing an “Underhammer” percussion design. It features the classic American hook butt plate in brass together with brass Patch Box fitted to a quality walnut butt stock. It measures 43 1/2″ in overall length, with a 27 1/2″ octagonal barrel with a bore of approximately .39″ and five groove rifling. It is fitted with a long adjustable rear spring sight. It does look to have been fit with other types of sights previously, and these simple guns were very often modified over the years.

The gun is certainly U.S. made but there are no Markers markings to be found anywhere on the surface. It has a molded steel fore stock that acts as the all steel ram rod holder. The trigger guard is steel, and is in fact the main spring operating the under hammer, which illustrates one reason these were popular: they were easy to make an inexpensive. The trigger acts as the tumbler, with the trigger guard the spring, both working to fire the gun.

There were of course some drawbacks to the design, most notably the propensity of the cap to drop off the nipple cone. The design also made having a “half cock” position difficult, so most are like this example, which has no half cock or any type of safety.

Condition is very good, with lovely lines. We checked the bore, and it still shows a mostly bright finish with intact rifling, though it definitely is worn.

Most unusual and in very nice condition, dating to approximately 1845.

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1845
Caliber: .38″ – 5 groove rifling
Cartridge Type: Ball and Powder
Barrel Length: 27 1/2 Inches
Overall Length: 43 1/2 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle Loading

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.