Bown & Tetley was established in 1848 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ownership of the company frequently changed and in 1862 James Bown was the sole owner. In 1883 the company became James Bown & Sons and later in 1883 the company was bought by Brown & Hirth. The top barrel is rifled and chambered in 32 caliber while the bottom barrel is a smooth bore 50 caliber. The top barrel flat is marked "JAMES BOWN / PITTSBURGH" and each lock is marked "BOWN & TETLEY / WARRANTED / PITTSBURGH". Fixed brass blade front and iron rear sights, short range Lyman peep sight mounted on the tang, wooden ramrod with brass tip mounted on each side of the barrels and double set triggers. Straight grip stock with cheekpiece, gold plated brass trigger guard, patch box and buttplate. The trigger guard and patch box are nicely floral scroll and punch dot engraved. The rifle can be fired one barrel at a time or both at the same time.

Fine. The barrels retain most of the thinning original brown finish. The forward left side ramrod pipe has been soldered. The locks and hammers retain approximately 50% of the faded original case colors mixed with smooth grayish patina. The percussion nipples are replacements. The stock is fine with scattered minor dings and dents. The toe tang is slightly bent and there is a small chip on the toe. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine.