John Phillip Beck was active in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, c. 1772 to 1811. This fowling piece is signed in his typical fashion with "J x P x Beck" on top of the octagon to round barrel which is equipped with rifle style sights. The gun has details seen on other known Beck signed fowlers such as the trigger guard finial and scroll carving at the barrel tang. See "Flintlock Fowlers: The First Guns Made in America" by Grinslade for other examples.

Good as refinished with reconverted lock, enlarged "vent" from the removal of the percussion drum, mild pitting concentrated at the breech, aged patina on the brass furniture, some chips and cracks in the stock, attractive flame figure, and generally fairly mild wear. Mechanically fine.