Original Belgian Double Barrel 10 Bore Percussion Fowling Piece for the U.S. Frontier Market with 34 Inch Barrels - circa 1855

Original Item: Only One Available. This substantial Belgian-made 10 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 well used fowling piece features all iron mounts with foliate flourishes on all. The gun has an impressive overall length of 50 1/4 inches, with double 34 inch barrels, and really has a great "frontier used" look. 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 assembly. There are some other markings, probably assembly and proof marks, as well as 19.6 on both barrels, which is the measured bore in millimeters, correct for a 10 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. The wood has a lovely glow to it, and there is some lovely grain to the wood, particularly in the butt stock. There is no major damage, just overall wear from use, and also the front of the forestock area is split going back from the ramrod pipe. There is also a small chunk missing from the toe of the butt stock Under the barrel is a wooden ramrod, which looks to be a recent display replacement.

The metalwork shows a good amount of wear and patination, definitely looking to have seen long use on the frontier. The original finish is long gone, and there is some evidence of past peppering, now removed. We checked the lock action, and both definitely need work, as we can feel a lot of slop in the mechanics. Neither side is fully functional, with the right lock firing at both full and half cock, while the left side does not even have a half cock position at present. We imagine that the tumblers are quite worn, and we can see that the left hammer has been repaired.

A nice large example of what many Americans carried on the frontier, in great frontier used condition! Ready to hang on the wall and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 10 gauge / bore (19.6mm)
Cartridge Type: Cap and Powder with Shot
Barrel Length: 34 Inches
Overall Length: 50 1/4 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion Locks
Feed System: Muzzle Loaded

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