Antique F.A. Loomis IXL No. 40 English SxS Hammer 10 Gauge Shotgun C. 1880's

Serial #51776, 10 Gauge, 30 inch barrels with thick walls marked “FINE DAMASCUS” on the solid rib having good dark bores with light pitting overall.  This is a Birmingham, England proofed side by side shotgun manufactured by “F.A. Loomis” marked on each of the lock plates surrounded by simple engraving with model number “IXL / No. 40” at the rear.  In fine condition the barrels are mostly pewter gray with some scattered freckling and tiny nicks and trace amounts of the original thumbprint Damascus pattern.  The frame and lock plates are very marked with trace amounts of faded original colors.  The walnut stock and forearm are solid with some very old contusion, chips at the butt and ancient worm holes with the tip insert missing from the forearm.  All numbered parts are correctly matching, the barrels are on face with tight lock up, the lever spring is not working so manual lock up with lever just slightly loose.  The rebounding hammers function well.  A very well built, great looking antique English 10 gauge hammer gun that might be a great candidate for shortening into a Cowboy Action shooter with proper low pressure loads.  Antique