Original British 12 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun with Twist Steel Barrel for U.S. Market – circa 1850 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a very nice British Double Barrel percussion shotgun, in what looks to be 12 bore, a very popular size then. It is fitted with a 32″ double barrels and measures 47 1/2″ in overall length. There is simple foliate edge engraving on both locks and most of the metalwork. This was most likely intended for the North American trade, so no makers marks are apparent. These guns were to be marked by the U.S. Retailers with their own names but were often sold without, such as with this example.

The barrel assembly on this gun is relatively standard, with the two barrels joined by a central rib. It still is easily removed from the stock, and the bottoms are marked with TWIST, indicating that they are “twist steel” spiral forged barrels. There are also the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC proof and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V viewed marks from the English city of Birmingham on the bottoms of both barrels. These are the correct markings for pre-1853 manufacture, after which the bore size and another marking were used.

The locks both function however neither will hold correctly at half cock. Both cap nipples are present, but worn, and we have not checked to see if they are clear. The wood stock is in very good condition, with a lovely color and grain, probably made from English walnut, a tried and true stock wood. There is a crack on the right side at the front of the lock plate, but it is not structural, and there is really no major damage anywhere on the stock. The wrist still bears some lovely checkering, which is still mostly crisp, and there is a small silver escutcheon on the bottom of the butt stock. The original ramrod is still present, complete with a ramming plug on one end, and a clearing “worm” screw on the other.

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

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: 12 bore
Ammunition Type: Lead ball / shot and Powder
Barrel Length: 32 inches
Overall Length: 47 1/2 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion
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.