A Fine Flintlock Sporting Gun by Richard Fenton of London, 47 ½” overall, 32” Spanish style 3 stage single 12 bore twist barrel, octagonal to 16 sided with turned girdle tapering flat top rib, the breech with platinum maker's stamp ‘Fenton London’ platinum line & vent plug, with London Proofs and William Fullerd barrelsmith’s mark, barrel breech with German Silver cheeks, tang engraved with a rabbit. Flat engraved bevelled border lock plate signed ‘Fenton’ under V shaped waterproof pan, engraved with a pheasant on the tail, throat hole cock, roller on frizzen spring. Figured walnut half stock with chequered grip, raised cheek piece & silver fore end, engraved iron mounts, the top of the butt plate with 2 pheasants, the squared back trigger guard ensuite decoration & pineapple finial, brass mounted ramrod. In its original fitted oak case bearing faded Fenton label, with leather powder flask, shot belt, cleaning rod, turn screw & other tools.
Circa 1810
A Sporting gun of the highest possible quality made by London’s best rifle maker. In good condition, the barrel with original finish, bore good. Some old pitting on main spring. Faded label can be read under UV light, only know example of a Fenton label.
Richard Fenton is recorded at 19 Shoemaker Row, Blackfriars from 1792 to 1815. In 1808 he devised improved rifle sights incorporating a platinum strip. He was a member of the Duke of Cumberland Sharpshooters.
William Fullerd the best London barrel maker, made barrels for Manton & Purdy among other top London makers. 56 Compton St 1808 -35.