There was a time in the early 19th century when market hunting on the Chesapeake Bay was in its zenith, hunters would peruse the waters of the eastern shore in search of wild fowl, paddling the shallow waters in their flat boats. Large bore guns were often mounted to the front of these skiffs, and when a flock of ducks or geese appeared, they would fire large charges of lead into the center of the flock, thus bringing down multiple birds with a single charge. This is one such gun. It was custom made, probably somewhere in that vicinity. This gun features a 45-1/2" half round/half octagon barrel. Smooth bore measures 1-1/4". Stock is a half stock walnut with a pewter tip. The 3/4" ramrod appears to be homemade and has some slight warping. Barrel is a pleasing mix of blue and brown patina. No visible makers marks. The stock is in surprisingly good condition given its size and age. Buttstock has a hairline crack extending 6" from the buttplate. Works on a percussion system. Screw repair at toe. Single trigger, side lock percussion system. Bore is fairly clean. Still in working condition. Trigger guard is slightly protruding from stock and could be heated and fitted a little better. Single barrel wedge. An extremely interesting historical and high condition gun for one of these rare examples. Overall length of gun is 61-1/2" and is 3" wide at the wrist.