April 9th & 10th Premier Firearms Sale (MFIRE)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/9/2016
Caliber .4 bore, Barrel length 41-1/2". W. Kavanaugh and Sons were both gun makers and retailers from 1796-1928 at their shop at 12 Dame St, Dublin. They are recorded in 1881 with the addition of Sons in their trade label. This single shot under lever, break open, 4 bore, is what is referred to as a market gun as they were manufactured for the sole purpose of killing as many wild fowl as possible with a single shot. These guns saw wide usage in the Chesapeake Bay in the pursuit of ducks and geese until outlawed in the 1890's. The 4 bore used the brass cartridge case that measured 4" and could shoot either a single 3-1/2 oz ,1500 grain slug but were most often used with lead shot. This single shot cannon utilized an under lever that allowed the barrel to tip up to accept the cartridge. The barrel is a dark brown patina and stamped with maker legend on top. Frame features light border and scroll engraving. Single exposed engraved hammer on right side with engraved lock and makers legend. Checkered walnut stock and forend with barrel wedge and horn forend tip. Missing the pistol grip cap. All metal is a brown patina. Original stocks are very good with no cracks. Original red rubber recoil pad has deteriorated. Very good clean bore. 1-3/4" sliver of wood missing on left side forend at frame. Very handsome and extremely hard to fine, 4 bore, market gun that is forever embedded in the folk lore of water fowl hunting in the early days before game restrictions.