William Read, Boston, Percussion 6 Bore?

[J.B. Books]

Thanks for the information and thoughts. I suggested to the owner that he attempt to determine if the gun might be "charged". I did not see a notch in the ram rod for that but I think he might have a bore scope at his business. I told him how to remove the barrels but it is his choice to disassemble it. It appeared to me to be "shootable" but I have no idea what a light BP load in 6 bore would be. I don't think he has any desire to shoot it. I also advised him to not make any attempt to make it look better, i.e. polishing brass etc.

Dave, I did see somewhere Wm Read was established in1826 and the name was changed to Wm Read & Sons around 1852. I am guessing this is a circa 1850 ish gun. There was also some reference to Lane & Read.

The owner sent me a picture of his grandfathers powder horn and a couple of measures that went with it. The powder measure is marked 10 DRS. 10 Drams of Blackpowder.......Holy Cow!