Original Belgian 8 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Fowling Piece for the U.S. Frontier Market with Twist Forged Barrels - circa 1860

Original Item: Only One Available. This MASSIVE Belgian-made 8 bore fowling piece / shotgun is not marked on the lock plates, and was almost certainly intended for the U.S. Frontier market, which was booming during the 1850-1860s. Domestic production could not keep up with the demand, so fowlers were imported in some quantities from Europe, and were left without maker markings, so the retailer could mark them if desired. This substantial 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 impressive overall length of 54 1/2 inches, with double 38 inch barrels, and really has a great look.

The shotgun has a faint REAL TWIST silver inlaid 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 is heavy enough to require two barrel wedges, which come 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 20.4 on the left barrel and 21.0 on the right, which is the measured bore diameter in millimeters, correct for an 8 bore fowling piece.

Overall condition is really very good, and the fowling piece is fitted with a lovely walnut stock that features a checkered wrist and a "pistol grip" style trigger guard. The wood has a lovely glow to it, and there is some fantastic figuring to the grain in the butt stock. It does however show cracking in the wrist area, including cracks on both sides of the bottom next to the triggers. With a barrel this massive and heavy, cracking is almost impossible to avoid, and it does not look like any attempts at repairs have been made. Under the barrel is a wooden ramrod, which looks to be a period display replacement.

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 foliate engraved designs, which are definitely still strong. Both locks are functional, however neither holds at full cock. The cap nipple cones look to be original, and are damaged, with the right side showing a lot of oxidation, and the left side cone being broken off.

A very LARGE 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: 8 gauge / bore (21.2mm)
Cartridge Type: Cap and Powder with Shot
Barrel Length: 38 Inches
Overall Length: 54 1/2 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion 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.