This video explains the characteristics and historical context of live pigeon guns, which were built for extreme strength and large loads to ensure pigeons were killed before escaping a boundary. These guns, popular until the 1920s, often featured long barrels (30-32 inches), longer chambers (2.75-3 inches), wide file-cut ribs for an improved sighting plane, and sometimes pistol grips and triple grip actions. While similar to modern clay shooting guns, live pigeon guns were bespoke, high-end items for aristocratic clientele who wagered fortunes on matches. The video also differentiates them from wildfowling guns, noting that while they share some properties, live pigeon guns were built to a higher standard of finish and bespoke specification.
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