Air guns of this style were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. This air gun is chambered in approximately .44 caliber/11 mm with a smooth bore, fixed "U" notch rear sight, and a metal buttstock air reservoir wrapped in green leather decorated with gold tooling at either end. This example features an exposed lock, with a cocking lever that doubles as a hammer for functioning. The gun and case have no visible markings. Includes a high grade fitted walnut case with green felt lined interior, air pump, ball mold, wad cutter, and key. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Fine, retains half of the original high polish blue finish with areas faded to smooth brown patina on the balance, gray and brown patina on the iron frame and components with scattered moderate freckling overall. The leather on the buttstock reservoir is also fine with some age related wear, a few scattered areas of light flaking, and defined gold tooling. Mechanically fine. The case is fine with refinished exterior, some scattered scratches, and light aging of the lining.