Original British 13 Gauge Double Barrel Hammer Shotgun by J. Manton & Co. of London Serial 8488 – circa 1870 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a typical British-made Double Barreled Hammer shotgun, possibly intended for the large U.S. import market. It is marked on both lock plates with J. MANTON & CO., with some line engraving around the edges. The Manton family were prolific gunsmiths in the London Area. JOHN MANTON was one of England’s finest gunsmiths in the early part of the 19th Century, as was his brother JOSEPH, who would mentor several famous mid 19th Century gunsmiths. Joseph Manton and Sons were one of London’s foremost Gun Makers that opened in 1795 and ceased trading in 1877. They operated stores in both London and Calcutta, the former of which is probably where this example was made, and then retailed in England or the U.S.

The barrel strap still has a clear marking near the breech:

LONDON FINE TWIST

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 forging lines are still readily apparent. 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. There is also the CROWN / BP definitive proof, and a 13 marking, indicating “13 bore” or about .710″. This is a rarely seen cartridge today, but at the time it was relatively popular, and we have seen other period examples in the same chambering. There are additional markings as well, such as the specifications on the “choke” of the barrels. The shotgun is also serial number marked with 8488 on the bottom of the barrel, on the fitting for the fore stock, and on the top of the receiver inside the hinge joint.

This very nice DOUBLE BARREL 13 gauge Hammer Shotgun presents very nicely, with a lovely patina of age, showing much handling but not much actual use. It has a great checkered “pistol grip” style butt stock, and the fore stock is checkered as well. Originally intended for hunting and home defense these saw a lot of use on the Frontier and were supplied to both Stage Coach Lines and Railroads.

The action still functions correctly, with ejection and dry firing. The rear stock has some lovely curl, and has a very nice gutta percha butt stock pad, which is embossed with a stag’s head. Unfortunately it is now missing the bottom two inches. We checked the bore, and it is bright and shiny, showing very little use.

A very nice antique hammer shotgun, ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1870
Caliber: about .710″ 13 gauge / bore – 3 inch chambers
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 30 Inches
Overall Length: 45 1/2 Inches
Action type: Side Action Locks with External Hammer
Feed System: Top Break with Top Lever

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.