New England "Traveling Gun" with Anvil Gunsmithing

Published on December 7, 2018
Duration: 13:14

This video details the operation and loading of a unique 12-gauge percussion underhammer takedown shotgun, likely from the mid-19th century. Mark Novak of Anvil Gunsmithing explains its construction, including the twist steel barrel and underhammer mechanism, and demonstrates how to load it with black powder, wads, and shot. The video highlights its lightweight design and potential for use as a 'walking gun' or even a derringer-like handgun.

Quick Summary

This 12-gauge percussion underhammer shotgun, estimated from the 1835-1850 period, features a twist steel barrel and a simple underhammer mechanism. Its design directs smoke away from the shooter's face, improving sight picture. The firearm's lightweight nature and modularity, allowing it to be configured like a derringer, are also notable characteristics.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Traveling Gun
  2. 00:21Unique Shotgun Features
  3. 01:04Aesthetic and Design Observations
  4. 01:25Derringer Configuration Potential
  5. 01:54Twist Steel Barrel Construction
  6. 02:30Underhammer Mechanism Advantages
  7. 03:20Simplicity of Underhammer Design
  8. 03:36No Trigger Guard and Purpose
  9. 04:18Modularity and Historical Context
  10. 04:21Estimated Age of the Firearm
  11. 05:20Shooting the Walking Gun
  12. 05:24Barrel Takedown Mechanism
  13. 05:29Loading Procedure
  14. 06:08Recoil and Firing Impression
  15. 06:15Museum Origin and Conservation
  16. 06:21Reloading and Cleaning Process
  17. 06:59Firearm Identification and Origin
  18. 07:09Conservation Work Details
  19. 07:27Ultimate Takedown Feature
  20. 07:34Queen and Screw Barrel
  21. 07:57Hammer Notch Condition
  22. 08:09Restoration Goals
  23. 08:18Percussion Underhammer Safety
  24. 08:21Mainspring Replacement
  25. 08:24Powder Chamber Loading
  26. 08:33Muzzleloader Loading Convention
  27. 08:46Powder Loading
  28. 08:53Over Powder Wad
  29. 09:00Lubricated Felt Cushion Wad
  30. 09:09Shot Loading
  31. 09:25Shot Contact with Barrel Walls
  32. 09:58Pattern Considerations
  33. 10:05Wax Lubrication
  34. 10:19Pre-Shoot Safety Check
  35. 10:36Trigger Safety
  36. 10:41Capping the Firearm
  37. 10:49Couching the Gun
  38. 10:55Operating vs. Shooting
  39. 11:04Conclusion of 1850s Walking Gun
  40. 11:14Final Thoughts on the Shotgun
  41. 11:16Appreciation for Anvil Gunsmithing
  42. 11:21Future Content Ideas
  43. 11:30Humorous Application
  44. 11:40Visiting Anvil Gunsmithing
  45. 11:47Importance of Preserving Old Firearms
  46. 12:23Significance in Firearms Technology
  47. 12:34Big Bore Black Powder Enthusiast
  48. 12:44Subscribe to Channels
  49. 12:56Thank You and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a unique feature of the underhammer shotgun discussed?

A key feature of this underhammer shotgun is its design, which keeps the hammer below the barrel. This placement avoids obscuring the shooter's sight picture and directs smoke and muzzle flash downwards, away from the face, making it a more practical field firearm.

How is the twist steel barrel of this shotgun constructed?

The barrel is made from 'twist' or 'Damascus' steel. This involves twisting strips of steel together and welding them to form the barrel. This method not only creates a distinctive visual pattern but also contributes to the barrel's strength and integrity.

What is the estimated age and historical context of this underhammer shotgun?

This particular underhammer shotgun is estimated to be from the mid-19th century, likely between 1835 and 1850. It represents a period when percussion firearms were common before the widespread adoption of self-contained metallic cartridges, often used as 'walking guns' for personal defense or small game.

What are the advantages of the underhammer mechanism in terms of simplicity?

The underhammer mechanism is praised for its simplicity and low parts count. Typically, it consists of just the hammer and the trigger, which also functions as the sear. The hammer spring often doubles as the sear spring, making it a very robust and easy-to-maintain design.

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