This cane air rifle or "air cane" measures 37 inches in overall length. It is painted black with a bone cap, small blade and notch sights, a fine-groove rifled bore, and loads at the breech. It comes in a presentation hardwood case with a silver plaque on top of the lid inscribed "J.W. Egerton" and John Blisset trade label underneath the lid, blue fabric lined interior, pump, bullet mold, tin containing lead balls and key. No further information has been found on a J.W. Egerton at this time. Air canes were popular in Great Britain from the 19th century until the end of World War I and were primarily curiosities occasionally used for informal target shooting and even hunting but rarely self-defense unlike cane swords. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Very fine, retains 90% of the original black painted lacquer finish with some scattered small chips. The case is very good with scattered scratches, some chips, and some separated sections on the interior. Mechanically untested.