Calmlikeabombb Posted March 22 Report Posted March 22 Hello, I am wondering if anyone would have any info on the location or dating this long gun? I removed all the pins but was unsuccessful at removing the barrel to look for a mei. Quote
Bugyotsuji Posted March 23 Report Posted March 23 Hello ET! I am just about to go out, but at a glance your fine gun is from Sakai, Osaka, from the early to mid 1800s; it has been converted with nipple and stronger leaf spring from matchlock to percussion fire, around... 1830-1840 ish. (Maybe the serpentine was also changed from ‘shinchū’ brass to iron at the same time, to work as a hammer on the percussion caps.) The barrel may be rusted in, and the stock woodwork has probably shrunk slightly, but some taps with a rubber hammer may help to free it. Remove the ramrod, and stand the matchlock upright, and with your fingertips on the upper stock, knock the barrel out into your left hand. (To start with. If not successful, go to Plan B.) 2 Quote
Bugyotsuji Posted March 23 Report Posted March 23 BTW, don’t worry if everything is not perfect. You’ll rarely find one in perfect condition, but yours looks as if it has plenty to enjoy. The woodwork has a nice rich colo(u)r. Sakai guns are famous for their bling kirigane metalwork, dividing collectors into those that love this aspect …and all the rest! (I have just come into possession of a rather similar one!) 😊 Quote
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