fore hand arms co.
Seeking information on a Fore Hand Arms Co. double barreled shotgun. circa early 1900's. serial #2705. This gun has 30" barrels,one is full the other is modified. hidden hammers with front to back triggers. Has extensive metal engraving and walnut butt and forearm with checkering. Is this gun safe to shoot and if so what type of ammuntiopn is availible. What mite this gun be worth on the open market. All replies appriciated
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Probably made between 1890 and 1902, when the company was bought by Hopkins & Allen. It may have twist barrels and probably has shorter chambers than current ammo, so should not be considered a shooter unless you use black powder loads. No significant collector value, but might be of interest to Cowboy Action shooters. 0 -
First, the name of the company was FOREHAND (one word, not two). The company started out as E. ALLEN in 1836 and went through several name changes ending up as the Forehand Arms Company (1890 to 1902) when it was bought out by Hopkins & Allen. By hidden hammers, I assume you mean the gun is a hammerless model which means by the serial number you give was made in 1898. If that is true, then the gun was designed for black powder and lead shot loaded 2 1/2 inch shells. It was not designed for modern high pressure smokeless powder and steel shot loaded 3 inch or magnum shells. My advice is don't attempt to shoot the gun unless you have it inspected by a good competent gunsmith and don't attempt to shoot it unless you can find some appropriate ammunition. Value of these old guns depends on its condition, the amount of original finish remaining on the metal and wood as well as the mechanical condition. 0
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