Original British Victorian 12 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun by J. Manton & Co. of London – circa 1860 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 J. MANTON & Co, with simple hatched 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 stamped 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 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 black powder proof, and a 12 marking, indicating “12 bore” or about .729″.  The breech plugs bear additional CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V markings on both sides.

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, and there is also checkering under the fore stock area. 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 locks are both functional, however the tumblers are worn, so they do not hold correctly at half cock, which is very close to the cap nipple cones, both of which are original and worn. There is a ramrod under the barrel, but it is a working life all wood replacement. The barrel wedge removes easily to allow barrel inspection.

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.1860
Caliber: 12 Bore / Gauge – about 0.729
Cartridge Type: Powder & Shot with Cap
Barrel Length: 31 ¾ Inches
Overall Length: 47 ¾ 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.