Original British 12 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun by Mortimer with Laminated Steel Barrel – circa 1870 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 MORTIMER, a legendary name in British firearms. H.W. Mortimer was a top quality maker, mostly Serving King George III. He was granted the right to mark his guns “Gunmaker To His Majesty”, at least until King George III died in 1820. His descendants continued the firm after his passing.

The barrel strap still has a clear marking on the top:

LAMINATED STEEL

It indicates that the barrel is “damascus” forged, resulting in a lovely pattern due to the laminated nature of the steel, which also adds strength. The finish on the barrels is faded, but the spiral lines are still faintly apparent. The bottoms of each barrel bear CROWN / VBP definitive black powder proofs from the City of Birmingham, which were simplified markings adopted after 1868. There is also a clear 12 marking, indicating “12 bore” or about .729″.  There are some letters which may be a maker’s mark, and there are also additional CROWN / VBP proof marks on both sides of the breech plug.

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. The shotgun’s fittings are all of iron except for the nickel silver barrel wedge escutcheons, and there is simple engraving on much of the metalwork. The bottom of the fore stock has a lovely oval nickel silver escutcheon as well, and there are also inlaid nickel silver heart designs on either side of the butt stock, as well as a small round escutcheon on the bottom. Unfortunately, at some point the stock cracked completely through at the front of the trigger guard, which was then glued back together. The joint appears stable at present.

The locks are both functional, however the tumblers are worn, so both have issues. The right side lock does not hold at half cock, and this position is very close to the cap nipple cone, while the left side lock does not have a half cock position anymore. Both cap nipple cones are present and original showing wear from use. The original ramrod is still under the barrel, with a brass ramming end, while the other end is now missing the brass fitting.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1870
Caliber: 12 Bore / Gauge – about 0.729
Cartridge Type: Powder & Shot with Cap
Barrel Length: 32 ¾ Inches
Overall Length: 49 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.