Take a guess at this one

SfcMac · June 25, 2010, 09:17 AM

I have had this gun for a number of years Let me know what you think

**Mike Irwin** · June 25, 2010, 09:22 AM

Appears to be a sporting gun made on a Martini dropping block action.

Possibly English.

Any markings on it?

Scorch · June 25, 2010, 12:42 PM

Many European gunsmiths modified Martini actions into target and hunting pieces, particularly during the pre-WW1 period. I have seen several German schutzen rifles built on Martini actions, a few shotguns, and even a paradox gun (German smiths in particular made the modifications to the trigger group and cocking levers like on your piece). Martinis were modified into shotguns by various armories for use by the Commonwealth Forces, typically for use by foragers and guards. Martini 12/14 gauge shotguns were also used, chambered for a cartridge with a 12 gauge head size and 14 gauge body size (these have a special prong on the bolt face to prevent firing regular ammo in them).

Look at the proofmarks on the gun. There will be the usual armory marks (typically British), but there may also be other proofs put on after the piece was modified that will give you some idea of when and where the action was modified. Common proofs are German, British, or Belgian.

June 25, 2010, 09:22 AM	#2
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 13, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,380	Appears to be a sporting gun made on a Martini dropping block action. Possibly English. Any markings on it? __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.

June 25, 2010, 12:42 PM	#3
Scorch Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2006 Location: Washington state Posts: 15,248	Many European gunsmiths modified Martini actions into target and hunting pieces, particularly during the pre-WW1 period. I have seen several German schutzen rifles built on Martini actions, a few shotguns, and even a paradox gun (German smiths in particular made the modifications to the trigger group and cocking levers like on your piece). Martinis were modified into shotguns by various armories for use by the Commonwealth Forces, typically for use by foragers and guards. Martini 12/14 gauge shotguns were also used, chambered for a cartridge with a 12 gauge head size and 14 gauge body size (these have a special prong on the bolt face to prevent firing regular ammo in them). Look at the proofmarks on the gun. There will be the usual armory marks (typically British), but there may also be other proofs put on after the piece was modified that will give you some idea of when and where the action was modified. Common proofs are German, British, or Belgian. __________________ Never try to educate someone who resists knowledge at all costs. But what do I know? Summit Arms Services

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