I've run across what I believe to be a 40-rod gun from the mid-1800's (1840-1880) - but still have a few questions, if anyone can help.
The .45 cal rifle, having a backaction lock and double set triggers, is marked in three lines as being made by "H.SOMERS", "BARNET", & "VT".
I found two "H.Somers" that were making guns between 1830-1880, and believe they might be father/son - Hugh Somers (died ca.1873 @ age 72) & Henry Somers (died 1924).
I would also appreciate anything else I could learn of the makers - since although I found a tiny bit of bio info on the possible maker, I was unable to find anything about their guns.
Does anyone know how to distinguish a rifle betweem them ?
BTW - Since the false muzzle idea was patented in 1840, I would presume this rifle (which is set up for one) is post-1840.
Ned H. Roberts mentioned a "H.SUMERS" of Barnet, VT in his book: The Muzzle-Loading Cap Lock Rifle - most likely a misprint/misspell, since the rifle is clearly marked.
I do not believe that the false muzzle, currently with this rifle, is original to the gun, since AFAIK all such had a post that obstructed the sight picture while it was installed - to preclude shooting with it "on".
This false muzzle has no such device, nor any evidence that it once had one.
I welcome your thought/comments.
.
The .45 cal rifle, having a backaction lock and double set triggers, is marked in three lines as being made by "H.SOMERS", "BARNET", & "VT".
I found two "H.Somers" that were making guns between 1830-1880, and believe they might be father/son - Hugh Somers (died ca.1873 @ age 72) & Henry Somers (died 1924).
I would also appreciate anything else I could learn of the makers - since although I found a tiny bit of bio info on the possible maker, I was unable to find anything about their guns.
Does anyone know how to distinguish a rifle betweem them ?
BTW - Since the false muzzle idea was patented in 1840, I would presume this rifle (which is set up for one) is post-1840.
Ned H. Roberts mentioned a "H.SUMERS" of Barnet, VT in his book: The Muzzle-Loading Cap Lock Rifle - most likely a misprint/misspell, since the rifle is clearly marked.
I do not believe that the false muzzle, currently with this rifle, is original to the gun, since AFAIK all such had a post that obstructed the sight picture while it was installed - to preclude shooting with it "on".
This false muzzle has no such device, nor any evidence that it once had one.
I welcome your thought/comments.
.