#153 • French Flintlock Elliptical Bore Blunderbuss (Circa 1780)

Part of The Ray Howser Firearms Collection, 1931-2026 (timed auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

Starting at $1,200.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Nov 20, 2026 10:00 AM EST

3" bore diameter, 17.25" octagonal to round barrel with elliptical bore, NSN. A fascinating and highly collectible example of late 18th-century French martial ingenuity, dating to circa 1780. This blunderbuss is distinguished by its highly sought-after elliptical bore, a specialized design engineered to spread the shot in a wide, horizontal fan pattern rather than a standard circular cloud, perfect for Naval use. Brass barrel with Iron furniture including the sideplate. Carved walnut stock. The brass barrel with nice patina. The metal parts are nice and smooth and polished in the European manner. The stock is absent of repairs. It is sharp and crisp with few nicks and dings.  One small chip out on the right side at the muzzle about a 1/4"  tapering down to 0  about 1 " long.  A small chip out left hand corner of the sideplate.  Excellent example of a French blunderbuss.