Looking for some answers

[clue less]

Hi everybody. I have 2 double barrel muzzleloaders and I am trying to find out what kind they are and possibly the value of them. I must admit that I don't know very much about muzzleloaders. My Father gave them to me when he passed away and I will probably to the same to my children. I looked on both guns and neither had any kind of serial numbers and I realize this is because they are too old. Here are some pictures:

MUZZLELOADER #1

MUZZLELOADER #2

Even though the second one has a deer head carved in the stock, my Father always told me that the first one is more valuable. If anyone can help me, I would appreciate it. Also, please let me know if you need any more information and I will do the best I can. I am also seeking some information on how to clean these guns. The last thing I want to do is to hurt the condition of them. Thanks

 

[bwhoffman]

I think I need to own 1 or both of those!
I'm thinking the first is older than the carved gun. whether I'd shoot either of them...I dunno :hmm:

 

[George Holton]

On removal of the barrel from the stock,you will probably find proof marks English on the first and belgian on the second, The guys on the line can help translate them for you. The first shows long and honorable use, the second less so. Bob

 

[shmrck1]

clue less,
I am by no means an expert on antique guns which
you most likely have. My thoughts are you may
get info here about maker, etc.. But it is only
by a hands on inspection by an expert that will
give you a value on the two sxs shotguns.
If you find someone that can do that,and they
give you a value.Ask if they will purchase it at their price.If they say yes,get another
opinion,and another,until they so no. Now you
have a ballpark figure as to what they are worth.
You may not want to present them together,
but seperate. Like I said I am no expert.:hmm:
snake-eyes :hatsoff:

 

[Mulebrain]

Thanks for sharing the pictures of these fine looking guns. These guns look to be in pretty good shape for their ages! Probably both made in Europe, but not sure.

Prices on the first gun 500- to over 1,000.00 if a provenance can be established, ie the gun maker, could really help determint the value.

The second gun 500.00 to maybe 1,000.00 based on the condition.

The big deal when it comes to these sxs shotguns is the gun makers who built them, and the quality they put into their guns.

In regards to firing them, the construction of the barrels is vital to know. A good gunsmith should be able to tell you. For a price, these barrels can have inserts installed to guarantee their safe to shoot!

Mule

This is my opinion, and I am not an expert.

 

[Mike Brooks]

The first one is quite late , probably built after 1870, maybe as late as the 1890's. I date it this late because of the pistol grip, style of engraving, style of the triggerguard, and the horn buttplate. I'm guessing american built because of the style of engraving and the SH&Co. lock signatures. English guns were usually marked & Sons.
The second is Belgian, I'm going to guess about 20 bore, as all of these animal head carved guns seem to have been smaller bores. I've never been too clear on when these carved guns were popular, but I'd say 1850-1890.
Do not do anything to them other than oil the inside and outside of the barrels. Oil the outside of the locks too. Don't do anything to the stocks. If you do anything more than that they will instantly become $100 guns instead of the $300 to $600 guns they are now.

 

[clue less]

I just want to thank all of you for the help :thumbsup: