Recoil Bob,
The rules of proof, 1813-1863, applied when your gun was made.These rules specified bore size and test load for each bore size from 1-50. The bore size given for 15 bore was .685 The proof load is given as 4 times the standard charge.The proof marks on your gun contain the letters B.P.C which indicates that the gun was made and proof tested in Birmingham,some time after 1855 and more than likely prior to 1863.
Hollis and Sheath 1849-1861 was re organised as Isaac Hollis & Sons.In 1861 the name was changed again to Hollis and Sons.
From a trade label in my collection we read that they were,Contractors to Her Majesty,s war department & manufacturers of double and single barrel fowling pieces,rifles,pistols and military arms.
Last edited by Roy Hebbes; 01/29/12 11:13 AM.
