Early J. Stevens double

[Ken Snyder]

Rob,
Very nice find! I am a huge fan of this early era in firearm development. The photos you posted reminded me instantly of a similar design utilized by the Whitney Arms Co.. Eariest examples of their "three trigger" design had no guard on the front trigger (the action opening mechanism) and is quite rare, although I have seen a couple examples. I imagine there were many instances of unintended opening as it snagged on clothing or brambles etc in the field.. The "Second" or "New" model is also pretty rare but it did incorporate a guard. Dates to approximately 1873.

The shape and style of the back of the action and hammers as they relate to the breech balls do remind me a bit of the early Wesson Arms double but it appears the Steven's design is unique. I'll try dig my Wesson out later and share photos.