Overall, later Blanch boxlock guns were 'finer' finished that many of their contemporaries but these early ones are often a bit plain. Don't forget that after nearly 120 years, the internals may be a bit sad! If you do buy it, please send its specification via the questionnaire at
http://www.jblanchdatabase.co.uk for inclusion in the database. Please also send a photo or two 'under seperate cover'.
Great stuff Toby, thank you. I am completing the questionnaire for an old J. Blanch and Son hammergun, #4795. I suspect it is a conversion from pinfire to centerfire. It has the back action locks, with the underlever breech bolt mechanism. Very fine scrollwork and great wood. I can post some pics if anyone is interested.
A question for you though Toby. Was the gun made in-house in London or made via the trade using artisans and craftsmen from Birmingham? How can you tell a) if another firm made the gun(s) and b) which firm it was that manufactured it?
Anyway, thank you for the information on Blanch guns. Truly an excellent maker.
Brad
