AmericanLongRifles Forums

General discussion => Antique Gun Collecting => Topic started by: axelp on October 20, 2014, 05:49:34 AM

Title: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: axelp on October 20, 2014, 05:49:34 AM

I took pictures of the barrel markings and am hoping someone can help me ID this old percussion double. I think its a belgium made import but was hoping to figure out the year it was made etc...

I measured the bores at the muzzle and I think it is a 14 gauge

http://s1171.photobucket.com/user/KennyP491/library/?view=recent

any help is appreciated thanks

Ken

Title: Re: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: hammer on October 20, 2014, 10:42:43 AM

Yes, those are certainly Belgian proof marks.   From the very basic engraving I would assume a lower end gun at the time for the bulk export market.  Not sure it would be possible to narrow down the date.  Probably later because of the back action lock?     
Good luck with it.   Looks to be in good condition.

Title: Re: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: axelp on October 20, 2014, 03:37:12 PM

Its in pretty good condition. The previous owner had some work done to it I think, A small wood patch was added to fix the edge of one side of the forearm. New nipples, The barrels seem sound and probably shootable. There was a very thin metal shim in the hooked breech that I assume makes for a tighter connection. It is a solid gun. I want to shoot light loads in it for quail someday. I guess I need to take it to a local gunsmith and make sure the barrels are ok for that, but it seems so.

I was thinking starting at 50-60 gr of FF and an equal volume of #5 or #7 lead shot. I also have 1F bp and 1.5F bp I could try in it to keep the pressures low? Never had a 14 bore before. Aprox. .68-.69 respectively at the muzzles anyway.

I am having trouble reading the barrel marks. I think there is a website that lists the marks and codes. I will have to keep looking.

thanks

K

Title: Re: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: axelp on October 20, 2014, 11:29:09 PM

I think I see a German proof mark in addition to the Belgian ones… not sure.

Title: Re: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: GrampaJack on October 21, 2014, 01:05:42 PM

http://www.doublegunshop.com/forums/ubbthreads.php

These folks can probably help you.  Best Regards, Jack

Title: Re: antique perc double shotgun ID help
Post by: axelp on October 22, 2014, 10:12:54 PM

thanks-- I think we have narrowed down the barrel age anyway-- to 1853-1877. The gun could have been made later though. I have yet to take the locks off and see what marks are on the inside of those.

K