Lot 106: Rare Burgess 'Folding Gun' Slide Action Shotgun

Manufactured by the Burgess Gun Co. of Buffalo, New York circa 1892 to 1899. It is unknown what the total number manufactured is, however, it is estimated to be only a few thousand. This shotgun has the unique design invented by American Inventor Andrew Burgess, who established himself in business in 1892 to manufacture this unusual repeating shotgun which has an iron sleeve over the stock wrist that activates the bolt and breech mechanism when slid backwards. Burgess was also noted for his Lever Action rifles made by Colt and Whitney. This particular "Folding Gun" has a 19 1/2 inch barrel and is hinged on the underside of the receiver with a lift lever on top which releases the barrel so that it can be folded in half. A unique "quick draw" waist holster was made to go with it (not included). The shotgun was advertised as being especially adapted for police service, express messengers, U.S. Marshals, prison and bank guards. The underside of the receiver is marked with the three-line patent and reissue dates and the matching serial number is stamped on the front left edge of the receiver, and on the underside of the receiver. Blade front sight and there is a groove in the top of the barrel release lever that serves as the rear sight. All blue finish and mounted with a multi-point checkered walnut forearm and pistol grip stock with a checkered hard rubber Burgess Gun Co. Dog's head logo buttplate.

Very fine. The shotgun retains 85% bright original high polish blue finish with some thinning, some scattered light spotting, some flaking on the right side of the receiver and high edge wear. The wood is also very fine with scattered minor pressure dents, scratches and dings. The checkering remains crisp. The markings are clear. Mechanically excellent. These are seldom, if ever, found in any condition, let alone the very fine condition of this rare example!