This large 4 bore centerfire breech loading shotgun is marked "G.L. BAILEY & CO." above "PORTLAND. ME." and "1250." on the top flat of the barrel. Gilbert L. Bailey is listed as an active gunmaker located at 42 Exchange St. in Portland, Maine in the late 1800s. An American made large bore shotgun such as this example, chambered for use with 4 gauge (just over 1 inch) centerfire shot shells, would have been intended for use by market hunters to take large numbers of waterfowl, typically shot from out of a small boat across the water. This practice of market hunting for waterfowl would be banned in the early 1900s. The lever on the right unlocks the barrel for loading at the breech, and the left lever is for cocking. Brass frame and buttplate, Schnabel walnut forearm with a straight walnut stock. 13 1/4 inch LOP. Weight 19 lbs. 7 oz.

Very good with heavy dark colored patina overall and legible markings. The stock is also very good, with a few repaired cracked areas visible at the wrist, a 1 inch crack on top ahead of the buttplate, and defined edges and fitment. Mechanically needs work as the extractor piece is absent, and the firing pin releases weakly.