EPIC Gun Auction Walk-around - Holts March 2024

Published on March 17, 2024
Duration: 63:17

This video provides an in-depth look at a rare 1885 Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun, detailing its unique rotary underlever, double-action rotary hammer trigger unit, and black powder-only functionality. The presenter highlights its lightweight construction for its time, the snap action forend, and the overall craftsmanship, estimating its value between £12,000 and £16,000. The review emphasizes the historical significance and engineering ingenuity of this exceptional piece.

Quick Summary

The 1885 Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun, valued between £12,000 and £16,000, features a unique rotary underlever, a double-action rotary hammer trigger, and is strictly black powder only. This rare 20-gauge non-ejector shotgun showcases remarkable engineering and craftsmanship from its era, weighing less than many modern over-and-unders.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Holts Auction
  2. 00:18Charles Lancaster Four-Barrel Shotgun Overview
  3. 00:55Action and Forend Mechanism
  4. 01:34Trigger Unit and Firing System
  5. 02:04Non-Ejector Design and Era
  6. 02:19Engraving and Action Details
  7. 02:38Chambering and Ammunition (Black Powder)
  8. 02:47Stock Dimensions and Checkering
  9. 03:15Maker's Mark and Rib Details
  10. 03:29Engineering and Ingenuity
  11. 04:01Comparison to Other Shotguns
  12. 04:12Affordable Options at Auction
  13. 05:31Beretta SL3 Mirror Polished Special Edition
  14. 09:08Engraved Shotguns Showcase
  15. 15:13Lasson & Winter Repeating Rifle
  16. 21:51Alex Martin & Armi Sporti Shotguns
  17. 22:41Boss Over-Under Project Gun
  18. 23:52James McNorton Edinburgh Model Bar-in-Wood
  19. 27:26Scottish Gunmakers Discussion
  20. 29:04Dixon Round Action Shotguns
  21. 30:47McNorton Skeleton Action Design Evolution
  22. 34:17Boxlock Shotguns and Makers
  23. 36:39Alex Henry Rifles
  24. 38:02Dixon Round Action Side Lever Discussion
  25. 39:14Scottish Gunmaking Style Analysis
  26. 40:19William Powell & Sons Engraved Shotgun
  27. 42:01Jacob's Rifle and Explosive Bullets
  28. 50:23Joseph Manton 16 Bore Side-by-Side Conversion
  29. 54:27Lancaster Howdah Pistols
  30. 57:41William Powell & Sons 28 Gauge Pair
  31. 61:12Holland & Holland Pair (Patty Pop Coke)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the estimated value of the 1885 Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun?

The 1885 Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun featured in the video is valued between £12,000 and £16,000. This valuation reflects its rarity, historical significance, and the intricate engineering involved in its construction.

What type of action does the Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun have?

The Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun utilizes a unique rotary underlever for closing and a snap action forend for locking. Its trigger system is a double-action rotary hammer, requiring the rear trigger to cock the hammer before the front trigger fires.

Is the 1885 Charles Lancaster shotgun suitable for modern ammunition?

No, the 1885 Charles Lancaster shotgun is chambered for 20 gauge and is strictly black powder only, with 2 1/2 inch chambers. It requires appropriate black powder cartridges and is not safe to use with modern smokeless ammunition.

What makes the Charles Lancaster four-barrel shotgun historically significant?

This 1885 shotgun is significant due to its rarity as a four-barrel firearm from that era, its innovative rotary underlever and double-action rotary hammer mechanism, and its lightweight construction for its time. It represents a period of significant gunmaking experimentation.

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