~ 19th Century Belgian .53 Cal Poachers Shotgun – Deactivated ~
The shotgun was deactivated in 2006, as per the proof stamps but is missing its certificate.
The term “Belgian Poachers Shotgun” typically refers to a class of small, lightweight, and often inexpensive shotguns that were produced in Belgium during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These shotguns were often associated with poaching due to their compact size, ease of concealment, and affordability, making them accessible to individuals who might use them for illegal hunting activities.
History:
Origins and Manufacture:
The production of Belgian poachers’ shotguns is closely linked to the city of Liège, Belgium, which has a long-standing history as a center for firearms manufacturing. Liège was renowned for its skilled gunsmiths and the mass production of firearms, including those for export.
During the late 19th century, Belgian manufacturers produced a wide range of firearms, from high-quality hunting rifles to inexpensive shotguns. Among these were the so-called “poachers’ shotguns,” which were designed to be low-cost, functional, and easily produced.
Design Characteristics:
These shotguns were typically single-barrel or double-barrel (side-by-side) break-action designs. They were often chambered for smaller gauge cartridges, such as 16-gauge or 20-gauge, though 12-gauge versions also existed.
The shotguns were usually of a simple construction, with basic wood stocks and metal components. The barrels were often short, which made them easier to conceal under a coat or in a bag—a key feature for poachers who needed to avoid detection.
Some models were even designed to fold or break down into smaller pieces, further enhancing their portability and concealability. This feature was particularly useful for poachers who needed to quickly hide the shotgun while in the field.
Usage and Reputation:
As the name suggests, these shotguns were often used by poachers—individuals who illegally hunted game on private land or during closed seasons. The compact design and ease of use made them ideal for this purpose.
Poachers’ shotguns gained a reputation as “working man’s guns” due to their affordability and widespread availability. They were often sold through catalogues and local shops across Europe and even exported to other countries.
Despite their association with illegal activities, these shotguns were also used by farmers, small game hunters, and others who needed a basic firearm for subsistence hunting or pest control.
Regulation and Decline:
As firearm regulations tightened in the 20th century, especially in Europe, the use and production of these types of shotguns began to decline. The rise of more modern, regulated firearms also contributed to the decline in their popularity.
Today, Belgian poachers’ shotguns are often seen as collector’s items. They are appreciated for their historical significance and craftsmanship, even if they were originally designed as utilitarian tools.
Identification and Collectibility:
Markings:
Many of these shotguns bear proof marks from the Liège Proof House, which is a key identifier of their origin. The proof marks typically include symbols such as the Perron (a column, which is the symbol of the city of Liège), ELG (standing for “Épreuve des Liége,” indicating proofing in Liège), and other marks denoting the type of firearm and its testing.
Often, these shotguns were unbranded or had the name of a local gunsmith or a trade name rather than a well-known manufacturer.
Collectibility:
While not considered high-end firearms, Belgian poachers’ shotguns have a niche following among collectors, particularly those interested in the history of European firearms, rural life, or hunting. Their value varies depending on condition, rarity, and specific features such as folding mechanisms or unusual gauges.
Some collectors value these shotguns for their rustic charm and the stories they tell about a bygone era of hunting and survival.
The Belgian Poachers Shotgun reflects a fascinating aspect of European firearm history, embodying the resourcefulness of both the makers and the users of these practical, if somewhat illicit, tools. Their legacy lives on as a reminder of the cultural and historical context of hunting and firearms in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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