Description

This is a genuinely scarce French pinfire sporting shotgun in 24 gauge, manufactured in St. Étienne by Brun Latrige circa 1880. While larger than the very smallest pinfire bores, 24 gauge remains a notably small caliber by pinfire standards, and examples from identifiable makers are far less commonly encountered than the typical 12, 16, or 20 gauge sporting guns of the period.

The gun is fitted with long 29½-inch twist steel barrels, showing a smooth concave rib and bead front sight, with extractors typical of quality St. Étienne production. The underlever Lefaucheux pinfire action is extensively engraved with flowing floral scrollwork, complemented by external back-action hammer locks and double triggers. The engraving is well laid out and consistent across the action body, top strap, opening lever, and trigger guard, reflecting careful hand work rather than purely commercial decoration.

The stock is of walnut with an English grip, finely checkered at the wrist and fitted with a steel buttplate. Period features include sling swivels and a gracefully shaped, engraved steel underlever, giving the gun an elegant and well-balanced sporting profile.

Specifications

Maker: Brun Latrige
Origin: St. Étienne, France
Date: Circa 1880
Gauge: 24 (pinfire)
Barrel Length: 29½ inches
Barrels: Twist steel
Action: Underlever pinfire
Locks: External hammer, back action
Triggers: Double
Stock: Walnut, English grip
Serial Number: 36
Legal Status: Antique (no FFL required)

Condition

The gun presents at approximately 90% overall, with a softened but still visible twist pattern remaining on the barrels and the action finished to an attractive gray patina. The engraving remains crisp and legible throughout. The wood shows an old, stabilized putty repair behind the action, along with bore wear and a small localized dent at the muzzle. The action remains mechanically sound, and the gun displays well as-is. These condition factors are reflected in the price and do not detract from its appeal as a scarce small-bore pinfire sporting gun.

Collector Notes

Brun Latrige is a documented St. Étienne maker, and his work exemplifies the competent, well-finished output of the region’s better provincial gunmakers. 24 gauge pinfire shotguns are far less common than the larger sporting bores, particularly when retaining original configuration and consistent engraving across all major components.

This piece will appeal to collectors of: