Original Belgian 14 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun by Parker for the U.S. Frontier Market - circa 1860

Original Item: Only One Available. This lovely Belgian-made 14 bore fowling piece / shotgun is stamped PARKER on both lock plates, but this was most likely added to help sell the gun, as we cannot find any information on the famous U.S.-based Parker company having imported Belgian shotguns. It was most likely intended for the U.S. Frontier market, which was booming during the 1850s. Domestic production could not keep up with the demand, so fowlers were imported in some quantities from Europe. The fowling piece features all iron mounts with some line engraving around the edges, as well as a flew small floral flourishes. The gun has an overall length of 48 inches, with double 32 inch barrels, and really has a great look.

The shotgun has LAMINATED STEEL stamped on the barrel rib near the breech end, indicating that the barrel is twist forged. The spiral pattern on the barrel is still easily, and this method of barrel production resulted in stronger steel. The barrel wedge comes out easily, allowing the barrel assembly to be removed.

The bottom of the barrel bears the E / L G / * in an Oval proof, indicating manufacture in Liège, Belgium. This small country, which only gained independence in the early 19th century, had long been a firearms production powerhouse, with Liège being the center of manufacturing. There is also the "Perron" or Tower of Liège on the left side of the barrel. There are some other markings, probably assembly and proof marks, as well as 17.6, the bore diameter in millimeters, correct for a 14 bore shotgun. There is the number 13493 stamped on the bottom of the center strap just forward of the barrel wedge fitting, and there is also 25277 stamped on the center strap near the muzzle.

Overall condition is really very good, and the fowling piece is fitted with a lovely walnut stock that features a checkered "pistol grip" style wrist. The wood has a lovely glow to it, showing only light wear and no major damage, just some very minor chipping around the lock plate inlets. Under the barrel is a lovely brass fit cleaning rod, which has nice wide rammer on one end, and a clearing worm on the other, protected by a brass screw cover. The metalwork is in very good shape, showing a lovely aged brown patina, with no signs of major cleaning or past restoration. The fittings all have lovely tastefully engraved designs, which are definitely still strong. Both locks are fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. The cap nipple cones look to have been replaced at some point in the past.

A typical example of what many Americans carried on the frontier, in truly lovely condition. Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1860
Caliber: 14 gauge / bore (17.6mm)
Cartridge Type: Cap and Powder with Shot
Barrel Length: 32 Inches
Overall Length: 48 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion Locks
Feed System: Muzzle Loaded

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