a gun with a couple makeovers in its history
This probably started life as a single-barreled sporting gun, the style is in keeping with the late 18th / turn of the 19th cent. which matches up with the dates of the McDermot(t)s one of whom was its likely maker.
Originally a flintlock, converted to percussion. The extra holes at the forward end of the lockplate were for the mounting of the frizzen pivot screw and spring. The bottom contour of the bolster into which the percussion nipple was screwed was made to fit the void on the top forward edge of the lockplate which has the shape of the former priming-pan from its days as a flintlock. Behind where the hammer used to me is a brazed outline of a sliding safety that was removed for some reason. These safety catches were an extra feature usually reserved for the higher-priced guns and rifles made for the sporting market.
Needless to say, the barrel has been severely shortened from an original length of probably 34-38 in. For use by a poacher or gangster, perhaps? A pity that it has been so abused and neglected, it was probably quite a fine gun in its prime.
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