Rare Poachers Folding Stock Large Bore Shotgun (AS51)

Makers sink on the top barrel flat is difficult to read. We believe this to be Ripoll or possibly Italian made. The poachers guns were made with folding stocks on hinges at the wrist. The idea being that the poacher, wearing a heavy coat, could carry the gun on the inside pocket. When an opportunity came along he could illegally poach on someone's property. In many instances being caught in possession of a poachers gun could get the poacher killed.

This type of poachers gun was prevalent in England and Europe. The stock folds by depressing a latch at the wrist. The grip of the stock is hollowed out to allow it to fold over the trigger guard. The overall length is 30 1/2". When folded it is 19". This is a one inch bore at the muzzle. The barrel is two stage being octagonal transitioning to a round with a well chiseled floral device at the transition. The stocks are carved with the fold depicting a long billed duck. A seldom seen gun!