Belgian Mystery

[Jon Sheets]

While it certainly wouldn't qualify as an "Other Fine Double", I would appreciate any information, estimations or guesses on this recent acquisition.

It was billed as a 28 gauge Belgian Muzzle-loading SxS, in good condition. Upon arrival I found the condition (for what it is) to be better than good, approaching excellent. I started researching the gun, and hit a brick wall.

Here is what I know;
Left barrel stamped: ARMAF LIEGEOISE BELGIQUE 17XX
Right barrel stamped: MADE IN BELGIUM

Belgian proof marks under barrel indicate 1810 ->; 1898-1924; G- for inspector Charlier Josef 1928-1959

Barrel is 32" including breech plugs and hooks.

Muzzle mics at .507, making it smaller than 28 ga (0.550) Doing the math makes it a 36 gauge.

Again, any information or thoughts would be appreciated.

[Jon Sheets]

Maybe these pics will help.

[Rick Losey]

www.littlegun.be/arme%20belge/artisans%20identifies%20a/a%20armaf%20gb.htm

[Jon Sheets]

Thanks, I found that too.

[edgarspencer]

It does not possess any of the characteristics that come with age. I am often wrong, but I don't think it's old at all. In fact I think I have socks which may be older.

[Jon Sheets]

True, it shows very little age, and even less use.

Rumor is they were imported to the US in the 1950's. Being a 36 gauge, it obviously hasn't seen much (if any) use. I've actually found hen's teeth while looking for load data and components!

I didn't join the world until the late 1950's, so I don't recall these guns being imported or on the market. I am hoping more seasoned shooters might recall them.

Thing is, if it's relatively current production, one would think I could locate something on the manufacturer, other than the usual dead-end internet hits.

The G cartouche indicates 1928-1959.

[Rick Losey]

for loading - try circle fly for wads

https://circlefly.com/products

for charges

https://goexpowder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/mlss.pdf

[Jon Sheets]

I've ordered some wads from circelfly's retailer TOTW. Will be going to Dixsons later next month.

The load data from goex will help developing a charge.

Thanks.

[Eric Eis]

I'm not sure, but when I was growing up in the 60's and reading American Rifleman, Century Arms had ads and I think I remember seeing similar shotguns advertised. Might be worth a google search

[Jon Sheets]

Thanks, I'll try that.

[Austin J Hawthorne Jr.]

John.
If the google search doesn't help, send me a PM. I have almost all the 1950-1965 issues of the American Rifleman and will look through them for you.

[Jon Sheets]

Century Arms says if they brought it in, their name would be on it.

It isn't.