AmericanLongRifles Forums

General discussion => Antique Gun Collecting => Topic started by: zukpilot on July 28, 2009, 10:55:26 PM

Title: newbie looking for some help
Post by: zukpilot on July 28, 2009, 10:55:26 PM

I have been in possession of a double barrel muzzleloader that I believe was my wife's grandfathers. The only identification on the rifle is below the hammers on each side and appears to be Nellis & Sheath. I'm looking for any type of info I can. I plan on cleaning up and refinishing the rifle for a display case but some history would be nice. 

Title: Re: newbie looking for some help
Post by: T*O*F on July 28, 2009, 11:09:41 PM

Quote

Nellis & Sheath.

It is most likely Hollis & Sheath, an English gunmaking firm.  Many of their guns were imported into the USA in the 1800's.

Hollis & Sheath, Birmingham, 1849-1861....gun and pistol makers.
The company was reorganized in 1861 as Isaac Hollis & Sons.

Quote

I plan on cleaning up and refinishing the rifle for a display case but some history would be nice.

 
You said it's a double barrel, so it is probably a shotgun, not a rifle.  Also, do not fool with it as you will destroy any intrinsic value it may have.  IF on the chance it is a double rifle, that is even more reason to leave it alone.  Amateur refinishings will immediately reduce its value by 75% or more.

Title: Re: newbie looking for some help
Post by: zukpilot on July 29, 2009, 12:13:37 AM

Thank you for the input and info.