It's Hammer Time
 

Still working my way through the safes in my semi-annual wipe down. Here's several hammer guns. I don't know too many fanciers of vintage guns that don't have a place in their hearts for hammer guns.

1. A J. Y. Potter 20 bore. This is a neat little gun, very lightweight, but nicely balanced. It's taken North Missouri quail, but now sits at the back of the safe.

2. A neat feature of the Potter are the heel and toe plates.

3. A New Ithaca Gun 10 gauge. I fell in love with the barrels of this gun, not to mention the case colors. I had Brad Batchelder rescue the stock. This gun, that I've had for some years, will go on just the right duck hunt at just the right time and place.

4. I love the old Scotts, and this early hammer 10 bore is a great example. The engraving is excellent, nicely stylized and expressive. Scott produced an oak leaf engraving motif that is on my "to buy" list. This gun has taken an early season duck or two, but doesn't get out nearly enough.

5. Notice the hammers on this gun that, according to the Scott book, was completed in 1878.

6. The contrasting rib is an especially nice touch to my eyes.

The NIG is very impressive.

32 inch near perfect barrels. The stock showed use, but not the metal. Go figure.