English Cased Takedown Fowling Piece 16 GAUGE

• Licensing Category: Antique
• Maker: English
• Model:
• Caliber/Gauge:


• Description:

  Here we have a very unique if not rare English Take Down Traveler's fowling piece.  This gun was built by Henry Bales of Ipswich, Suffolk County, England.  Our research indicated that this maker operated from 1823 to 1930.  Despite his short time in the trade, his known works show him as a quality and talented gunmaker.  We have not been able to find another example of the item that we are offering.  When assembled, this 16 gauge percussion fowler shows a 28" barrel and an overall length of 44 1/2".  In the case it is 17" and under. Both the barrel and lock are maker named.  The lock and hammer show fine border engraving and scroll engraved surfaces.  The top tang, heads, triggerguard and nose cap are all finely engraved.  The forestock and butt are built from English walnut with both the half-stock and the butt piece checkered.  The butt shows a 4 1/4" engraved tang.  The plate  has border engraving.  The butt attaches to the action with an unique and positive latch.  The barrel shows an overall very good bore.  The finish is both a ribbon and rose Damascus which appears to show an old rebrowning.  This piece rides in a very solid oak case 21 by 9 3/4 inches.  The case is lined with green baize and shows the makers original trade label.  Included is an original Sykes heavy walled powder flask and a well used double ended shot dispencer.  The baize shows some mothing on the cover.  The case remains in sound condition.  We believe that this piece was built for a wealthy hunter who had this unit built for overseas travel.  It may well been used for game or camp shooting. Whatever its history or usage this is a very unique percussion fowling piece and a unique collectors item.