Old Double Barrel, The Fulton?

[.22M.R.F.]

Hoping some of you shotgun experts can help with a couple questions concerning the Hunter Arms Produced shotgun. I am unable to locate any markings indicating the Gauge gun this is designed to shoot, the only markings are on the top of the barrels, the right barrel has "The Fulton" stamped in the metal and the left has "HUNTER ARMS CO INC MFG". Both side locks have a kind of checkered pattern or engraved with no wording at all. Would I find more information using the serial number or does that have any bearing on information? The forearm has to be removed before the serial number is visible. Can be seen on the receiver, the barrels and the forearm. Also stamped into the wood groove where the trigger guard attaches to the stock. I have one of the old tapered gauges that I inserted into each barrel muzzle which inserted to a 1/16th short of the 16. You say "Duh" but is that the proper way to determine the bore if not marked? Aren't there usually coded marks on each barrel denoting the amount of choking employed? I'm aware that this was manufactured as a utilitarian game gun without frills but seems that there should be a mark denoting what a person needs to buy to shoot it or hunt with it. This shotgun is not mine but belongs to a friend who found it in the home of his parents in a closet after his father was deceased. Sorry, this is way too long but please help with information if you can. Thank you.

 

[oneounceload]

A bore mic would be useful to determine the choke AND the length of the chambers. Do NOT assume it is 2-3/4", verify. There should be some markings on the barrel flats when you break the gun down. It could have 2-1/2, 2-9/16, or 2-3/4 inch chambers. Remember the length of the shell if for a fired hull so an unfired modern 2-3/4 will fit in a 2-1/2" chamber.

Quick trip to a competent smith for a once over is also recommended before firing it.

(If you post pics of any and all markings, folks here might be able to help you more.)

 

[.22M.R.F.]

The Fulton, by Hunter Arms Co.

Thanks you "oneounceload", the Hunter Arms web site contained a couple answers to the questions. The "Etching" on the side locks was a non-cataloged extra and there was a photo of this with an explanation. The confirmation of gauge continues to be in doubt but will find a 16 gauge shell for trial and check for chamber length while doing so. Appreciate your reply and would appreciate any estimate of value, not photo capable but believe the gun to be 25% to 35% remaining Case hardening and Blue. Solid mechanically and no apparent damage from being dropped on the wood or metal. Thanks for any value estimates, they were around $40.00 with double triggers in the 1920's when new.

 

[oneounceload]

For older guns like that, you might ask the folks at doublegunshop.com, or at shotgunworld.com. Both have lots of folks with lots of knowledge about those older guns

 

[.22M.R.F.]

Old Fulton

Thank you sir, I shall inquire with them and see what I can learn.