May 28 & 29, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/29/2020
Unusual and special early pinfire 16 bore gun made with very vivid Damascus twist pattern barrels that have flat top rib with makers name "IMAN MEFFERT SUHL" on top at breech end and small brass bead at front, sling swivel on bottom rib. Forend is checkered on sides with wedge fastener and gun is opened with a rotary opener on bottom. Line border engraved back action locks. Straight grip buttstock is of very figured walnut, checkered in point pattern with ebony grip, has sling swivels, and full steel buttplate. There is a cheek piece on the left side of the stock. PROVENANCE: Pinfire guns have long been debated as to the loss of gas through the pin holes therefore decreasing pressure upon discharge of the firearm. Noted gun writer, Steve Helsley, had the opportunity to use this gun to test this theory with the scientist at US Army Yuma Proving Grounds and has provided a notarized letter and has supporting photography of these test. The gun was featured in the Fall 2003 issue of Der Waffenschmied. CONDITION: Very good. Barrels with about 90% original brown finish remaining. Forend with minor losses towards tip. Locks and action have toned to gray. Grip with repaired stress crack behind trigger guard to ebony. Buttstock is sound and retains most of an older finish. 1" long x 1/8" wide small period chip at top edge of forearm above wedge escutcheon. Bores show some fowling and minor orange peel. Mechanics are fine. Truly a wonderful firearm for a vintage gunning enthusiast! JTH
Barrel Wall Thickness
(L) .033 (R) .028
Internal Bore Diameter
(L) .654 (R).667
Paperwork
Notarized documentation