Original British 12 Bore Double Barrel Factory Engraved Percussion Shotgun by Hollis & Sheath – circa 1855 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a typical British-made Double Barreled Percussion shotgun, possibly intended for the large U.S. import market. It is marked on both lock plates with Hollis & Sheath, a known Birmingham gun-making company that made high quality weapons from 1852 to 1862. They often exported unmarked guns to the United States, so the fact that the locks are marked suggests it was made for domestic use.

This example is definitely a somewhat upmarket version, featuring a lovely twist steel “Damascus” barrel, as well as wonderful factory engraving on virtually all of the fittings. There are even some great “Hunting Scenes” on both lock plates! The barrel strap still has a relatively clear marking on the top, with a “banner” reading

London Fine Twist

The barrel strap and both barrels have faded to a lovely gray patina, but both still show the lovely laminated spiral forging pattern on the exterior. This added strength to the steel, as well as adding a great look to the gun overall. The bottoms of each barrel bear the correct Birmingham proof marks, including the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC “proof” and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V “viewed” marks. They are also both stamped H & S for “Hollis & Sheath”.

This very nice DOUBLE BARREL 12 bore Percussion Shotgun presents very nicely, with a lovely patina of age. The wrist of the stock is finely checkered for a better grip, which is still present but definitely does show some wear. There is also a repaired crack behind the right side lock. The shotgun’s fittings are all of iron, with fantastic factory engraving. The locks are both fully functional, and correctly hold at half cock, firing at full. However the half cock position is very close to the cap location due to tumbler wear. The cap nipple cones both look to be original, showing wear and oxidation from use.

The original ramrod is still present, complete with a brass ramming plug on one end, and looks to be made of a dark hardwood. The other end has a brass fitting as well, as well as a small extension, which often sometimes pulls off inside the stock. The barrel wedge pulls out relatively easily, allowing the barrel to be removed.

This is a great looking gun by a known Birmingham maker, and would look perfect mounted on the wall. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1855
Caliber: 12 Bore / Gauge – about 0.730
Cartridge Type: Powder & Shot with Cap
Barrel Length: 30 Inches
Overall Length: 46 1/4 Inches
Action type: Side Action Locks
Feed System: Muzzle Loaded

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.