Antique French Underlever Shotgun | Double Barrel | Circa 1860s
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: France
Material: Steel barrels and lockwork, walnut stock, brass trigger guard
Period: Mid-19th Century, circa 1860s
Description
An antique French underlever double-barrel shotgun, chambered in 16 bore and utilizing the pinfire ignition system—a key transitional technology in the development of modern firearms. Likely manufactured in the 1860s, this example features an underlever break-action mechanism, double triggers, and hammers. The walnut stock has developed a warm patina, complemented by a curved brass trigger guard. Although non-functional today, the action remains firm and illustrates the precision of mid-19th century French gunmaking.
Features
- Early pinfire ignition system, transitional from percussion to cartridge firearms
- Underlever break-action design with double barrels
- Double triggers and exposed hammers
- Walnut stock with aged patina
- Brass trigger guard and hardware details
- Offered as a collector’s or display piece (non-functional)
Cultural Significance
The pinfire system, developed in the early 19th century, marked a major innovation in firearms technology. By integrating the primer into the cartridge itself, it laid the foundation for modern ammunition. Firearms like this shotgun were commonly used by hunters and rural landowners during France’s Second Empire, embodying both technological progress and the lifestyle of 19th-century Europe.
Condition
Fair antique condition. Surfaces show oxidation and wear consistent with age and exposure. The walnut stock bears scratches, handling marks, and some separation at the joint. Structurally stable for display purposes, but not functional for use.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 41.5 in
Age
Circa 1860s, Mid-19th Century France
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: France
Material: Steel barrels and lockwork, walnut stock, brass trigger guard
Period: Mid-19th Century, circa 1860s
Description
An antique French underlever double-barrel shotgun, chambered in 16 bore and utilizing the pinfire ignition system—a key transitional technology in the development of modern firearms. Likely manufactured in the 1860s, this example features an underlever break-action mechanism, double triggers, and hammers. The walnut stock has developed a warm patina, complemented by a curved brass trigger guard. Although non-functional today, the action remains firm and illustrates the precision of mid-19th century French gunmaking.
Features
- Early pinfire ignition system, transitional from percussion to cartridge firearms
- Underlever break-action design with double barrels
- Double triggers and exposed hammers
- Walnut stock with aged patina
- Brass trigger guard and hardware details
- Offered as a collector’s or display piece (non-functional)
Cultural Significance
The pinfire system, developed in the early 19th century, marked a major innovation in firearms technology. By integrating the primer into the cartridge itself, it laid the foundation for modern ammunition. Firearms like this shotgun were commonly used by hunters and rural landowners during France’s Second Empire, embodying both technological progress and the lifestyle of 19th-century Europe.
Condition
Fair antique condition. Surfaces show oxidation and wear consistent with age and exposure. The walnut stock bears scratches, handling marks, and some separation at the joint. Structurally stable for display purposes, but not functional for use.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 41.5 in
Age
Circa 1860s, Mid-19th Century France
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