“WIND GUN” Late 1700s/Early 1800s AUSTRIAN/GERMANIC Stock Reservoir AIR GUN Primarily Used for HUNTING .44

Product Description

“WIND GUN” Late 1700s/Early 1800s AUSTRIAN/GERMANIC Stock Reservoir AIR GUN

Primarily Used for HUNTING .44

Here we present a European Stock Reservoir Air Gun, made circa the late 1700s to early 1800s likely in Austria or Germany. Air guns represent the oldest pneumatic technology. The oldest existing mechanical air gun dates back to about 1580 and is in the Livrustkammaren Museum in Stockholm. This is approximately what most historians recognize as the beginning of the modern air gun. Throughout 17th to 19th century, air guns in .30 to .51 calibers were used to hunt big game, deer, and wild boar. These air rifles were charged using a pump to fill an air reservoir and gave velocities from 650 to 1,000 ft/s. They were also used in warfare, the most recognized example being the Girandoni air rifle.

Aside from indoor target shooting, guns of this style were used for hunting. “Wind guns” had several advantages over conventional firearms, including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. As mentioned above, this air gun is likely of Austrian or German origin and is chambered in approximately .48 caliber/12mm with a smooth bore, fixed notch rear sight, exposed mainspring, and a copper stock air reservoir.

The overall condition is fair to good. The action is not functional. The bore is smooth and in good condition. Both the barre and air reservoir can thread on and off. There is some modest engraving on the left side of the frame. Formerly of the Beeman collection.

Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.

Barrel is 44 inches.

Caliber: .44

Overall condition as seen in photos.

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$2000
#233752