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Forsyth Patent Fowling Piece
Case for Forsyth Patent Fowling Piece
Forsyth Patent Fowling Piece
Forsyth Patent Fowling Piece

Case for Forsyth Patent Fowling Piece

Associated
Associated (Belhelvie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, 1768 - 1843)
Associated
Datec. 1822
Object NameCase
Mediummahogany, velvet lining
ClassificationsWeaponry
Dimensions9.2 x 81.8 x 25.5cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1981 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS002550.2
About MeThe shotgun from this case is a rare 16-bore double barrel Shotgun with roller primers made by the celebrated firm Forsyth & Company. It is only one of eight such examples identified.

Alexander John Forsyth, who invented roller primers and who began development of the percussion cap mechanism, was an Aberdonian. After graduating from King's College, Forsyth became Minister of Belhevie. He was interested in a wide range of scientific and mechanical subjects but was also fond of shooting. In the 1790s he experiemented with explosives and gunpowder, which led him to devize an improved lock.

He took the lock to London in April 1806 to show it off to sporting friends. The Master General of Ordnance thought the lock might have a military application and Forsyth was pursuaded to experiment further at the Tower of London.

When Forsyth returned to Belhevie, he went into business with his relation James Brougham to produce high quality firearms such as this.