Tate Flintlock Blunderbuss

This is a superb flintlock Blunderbuss with spring loaded bayonet manufactured by Tate. In outstanding condition this is a typical example of a coaching blunderbuss the non-ferrous barrel being indicative of application.With 14 inch brass barrel with 2 bore belled muzzle and mounted with a spring bayonet above, iron tang with bayonet release catch, Tate signed flat bevelled lock with stepped tail, safety-catch and figured walnut full stock with chequered wrist. A blunderbuss is an evocative item for any collection and if you wanted just one example this would be it.
Bryan Tate was based in Louth and operated from a shop next to the Mason's Arms Hotel in the Cornmarket. The view and proof marks on the barrel are Birmingham and are the post 1813 type according to Appendix D in British Military Firearms by Blackmore. Bryan Tate died in December 1841 aged 85. His son, Richard, was also a gunmaker with a shop in Butcher Market. Richard moved to Horncastle in about 1847 and opened a shop next to the Admiral Rodney Hotel. It is possible, but not proven, that this type of blunderbuss was used by the guards on the Louth to London coach in the 1800's.

Code: 50055