I was referred to this forum from the good folks at Gunbroker's Expert Forum.
I have in my possession a Teschner marked side by side number 1893 in Cal 1. pics can be seen here in this GB post if interested:
http://forums.gunbroker.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=468613Basically I fell in love with the slick under lever design and impressive engravings, horn carvings, etc; so I bought it, now I'm trying to learn more about it and the fellow who made it.
I'm also trying to gauge its approximate age, based on info I found on the web I am thinking this was made before Collath became a partner (1870ish? as far as I can tell) Only Teschner's name appears on this shot gun. I have not stumbled upon any other examples that only have Teschner's name (on the internet)seems most has either both names or just Colath's or Tesco. I am assuming that guns with both names predate ones with just Collath's name, which predates Tesco marked guns. Am I correct in thinking Teschner only marked firearms would predate all the others?
The stock is in pretty poor condition but the receiver and barrels are in very good condition, they were grimy (as seen in the GB pics) but cleaned right up without using any abrasive.
Not sure I want to shoot it but is there a source for Cal 1 ammunition?
Any tips on removing the for end from the receiver? I have removed the nose cap and expected the wood to slide forward but it seems fastened (maybe just grimed in?) I am currently speculating that maybe the metal part on the wood is more than decoration and needs to be removed to get the for end off, am I wrong? I'm being overly cautious and if it fights me I'll just leave it on, removal would allow me to get the grime 100% out is all.
Also any thoughts on approximate value would be appreciated, I am fairly certain this is a keeper regardless of value. I gave $400.00 for and it is worth at least that much to me even if I over paid, however knowing its true ballpark may cause me to adjust either my firearm insurance or plans to display it over the fireplace.
Lastly, my feeling won't get hurt if I over paid for this or if any of my assumptions are out of line, I bought this only because I thought it was neat and paid less then I would have so even if it is only worth $50.00 I'm still comfortable with my buy. so be honest in replying.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this post.