Guns International #: 100932871
Seller's Inventory #: 5179
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Guns International #: 100932871
Category - Double Rifles - Antique
- Antique Rifles - Percussion
Seller's Information
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Seller: AncestryGunsLLC
Company: Ancestry Guns LLC Member Since: 11/3/16
State:
Missouri
Zip: 65203
Country: United States
Phone: (314) 707-7373
Int'l Phone: 314-707-7373
Platinum Seller
Active Listings: 1470
Total Listings: 29971
Seller Type:FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Payment Methods: Credit Card, Certified Check, Money Order
Antique DOUBLE RIFLE by “GREAT WESTERN GUN WORKS”
Description: Antique DOUBLE RIFLE by “GREAT WESTERN GUN WORKS” “J.H. JOHNSTON” of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Here we present an antique J.H. Johnston Great Western Gun Works Percussion Double Rifle, made circa 1870. The company was started by James Hampton Johnston (1836-1915), son of gunsmith John H. Johnston (he was apprenticed to renowned gunsmith Henry Carlile of Shippensburg, PA). He grew up in Waynesboro, apprenticing under his father, then moved to Pittsburgh in 1860, just in time for the Civil War. This was a most fortuitous move as Pittsburgh’s iron production made the town much wealthier as all manner of arms, munitions and other war-related goods were produced there. He was made master armorer at the Alleghany Arsenal there as the arsenal ramped up production to meet the Union’s demand for the war. It is estimated that this arsenal alone produced up to 10% of the munitions for the Union government during the war. After the war, in 1866, Johnston founded his Great Western Gun Works in Pittsburgh. It burned to the ground in 1868, but this young entrepreneur rebuilt and grew his business enormously. He had an extensive catalog, kept 25 skilled men on staff, and sold to every state and territory in the nation. In 1888, his son, John A. Johnston, joined the business, and in 1896, he took over for his father. He continued the family business until 1923. This specimen is a scarce and great example of an American double rifle from this period. This side by side gun features a left barrel that is rifled and .73 caliber, while the right is also rifled and .44 caliber. The barrels are fairly long at 35 inches. The stock is in the style of a half-stock Pennsylvania long rifle, with a crescent butt plate, a patch box, and brass hardware. This gun also features double set triggers. The top of the barrels reads “J.H. JOHNSTON/GREAT WESTERN GUN WORKS/PITTSBURGH PA”. Each of the back action locks are marked “J.H. JOHNSTON”. The front sight is a single blade and the rear sight is a single notch. This gun would have been intended for hunting large and perhaps dangerous game, much like a “Cape” gun. The initial placard on the bottom of the butt stock is marked “G.E.H.” The overall condition is near fine. The metal surfaces have a dark aged patina. The markings are clear and legible. The walnut stock is in very good condition, showing use, and remaining solid. The bores remain well-rifled and clean. The action is excellent. Here is a fantastic gun from a great Pittsburgh maker. Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction. Barrel is 35 inches. Caliber: .44 caliber in the right bore, and .73 in the left bore Overall condition as seen in photos. Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail! Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY. ancestryguns $1500 #5179 SOLD Antique: Yes |
Guns International #: 100932871
Seller's Inventory #: 5179
Guns International #: 100932871
Seller's Inventory #: 5179