Very Early Redesigned Forend Latch?

[Eric Estes]

I came across #11009 a plain twist 12GA lifter that is from the end of the 1877 run. The interesting thing about this one is that it has the redesined forend latch. I am still a rank beginner and learning, but from my limited research this is a very early gun to have this feature. Has anyone heard of lifters with the older split pin latch being sent back to the factory and refit with the newer design?

Still in discussions with the owner so I have not got my hands on it yet to verify all details, but am interested in any thoughts anyone has.

[Bill Murphy]

I believe we have found that there are more than a few early guns with an out of era latch, assumed to be factory installed.

[Eric Estes]

Thanks Bill. Since it is not all that rare I will stick to evaluating this one on condition and shootability. I guess someone should submit some earlier examples for the Parkers found list. That shows #12204 as the earliest found.

[Autumn Daze]

Bill, Is spot on we have seen more than several guns being converted to the Deeley and Edge latch.

[10ga Hammer]

Here is a pic of 15901 forend. Originally had a cross pin,which appears to have been plugged and pinned with three small wooden dowels, then checked over. No mention of it in the letter. Maybe an example of older designed parts being used up?

[Richard B. Hoover]

Robert,

Can you please post a pic of the latch and the forfend iron?

[Dean Romig]

It is what it is... you can plainly see the early forend tip.

[10ga Hammer]

Here ya go.

[Richard B. Hoover]

Robert,

Thank. That shows what I wanted to see. The "Patd Mar 26, 1878" is stamped on the latch rather than the latch lever. What is the grade of 15901? Is it obvious where the barrels have been changed to receive the King latch rather than the wedge forend?

Richard

[Eric Estes]

Richard,

What is the importance of the patent date stamped on the latch body as opposed to the latch lever? Still learning, thanks.