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LOT 249 Rare British Flintlock “Nock” Volley Gun - NSN, 32 gauge, 20 inch round bbl., bright finish, walnut stock. The Nock Volley Gun was actually designed by James Wilson in 1779 during the American Revolution and was put into production by Henry Nock under contract with the Royal Navy. It could be used similar to a blunderbuss but with greater range as well as greater recoil. They were ultimately pulled from service in 1804/1805 as they proved to impractical and dangerous to both the shooter and his vessel. Some were also produced for the private market
for hunting. This unusual volley gun has no identifying maker’s marks but was most likely made by Henry Nock c. 1780 when he was producing James Wilson’s volley guns for the British Royal Navy as it has the earlier style lock. It was either made for or updated for private sale given the checkered wrist, lack of government markings, and the replacement of the side plate with two lock screw washers. The smoothbore barrels have Ordnance “crown/cross scepter” proofs. “H-NOCK” was likely originally signed on the right barrel towards the breech given other examples we have examined. The lock has a distinctive frizzen spring that folds between the priming pan and the cock (Second Models had the spring under the pan) , “LONDON” stamped below, and a back action mechanism. The trigger guard and buttplate are martial pattern. The walnut stock has the martial pattern shape but with a checkered wrist. CONDITION: Very good with mottled gray and brown patina on the barrels and lock along with extensive mild pitting, distinct “LONDON” marking, some faint proofs, aged patina on the furniture, and mild overall wear. The stock has some small repairs, crisp checkering, and moderate scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500 247