#KUCH2X • Pair Antique J. Christoph Kuchenreuter Double Percussion Sporting Gun
Part of Black Friday 2026 Clay and Sportsman Auction (timed auction by Double A Auction & Realty)
Starting at $500.00
Status: Available
Bidding closes Nov 27, 2026 11:34 AM EST
Matching-Numbered Pair of J. Christoph Kuchenreuter Percussion Sporting Guns Antique Bavarian Double-Barrel Muzzleloaders • Regensburg Offered together is a matching-numbered pair of antique Bavarian side-by-side percussion muzzleloading sporting guns in 20 gauge. The extensively decorated barrels bear silver-tone inlaid inscriptions reading “J. Christoph Kuchenreuter” and “In Regenspurg,” accompanied by the distinctive horse-and-rider marks associated with the historic Kuchenreuter gunmaking family. Both actions are functional, with the hammers cocking and releasing properly. The pair has not been test-fired, and mechanical function should not be interpreted as confirmation that the barrels are safe to fire. Historical Background The Kuchenreuter family established one of the most respected German gunmaking traditions in and around Regensburg, Bavaria. Successive generations produced carefully finished sporting arms for wealthy sportsmen, members of the European nobility and the princely House of Thurn and Taxis. Surviving Kuchenreuter firearms are especially recognized for their signed barrels, decorative metalwork, fine walnut stocks and distinctive horse-and-rider maker’s marks. Johann Christoph Kuchenreuter lived from 1755 to 1818 and worked at Steinweg near Regensburg. He belonged to the period during which European sporting arms progressed from the flintlock system toward early percussion ignition. Some surviving guns bearing his signature remain in their original configuration, while others were subsequently altered or rebuilt for percussion ignition. These guns are presently configured as percussion muzzleloaders. Their precise date of completion and whether the percussion systems represent their original configuration or a period alteration have not been independently established. The matching numbers and consistent design nevertheless make this an unusually appealing pair of Kuchenreuter-signed sporting arms. Notable Features Matching-numbered pair of antique sporting guns Side-by-side percussion muzzleloading configuration Barrels signed “J. Christoph Kuchenreuter” and “In Regenspurg” Horse-and-rider marks visible at the breeches Decorated barrels with extensive foliate and scroll patterning Twin external percussion hammers Double-trigger arrangements Engraved locks, hammers, breeches and trigger guards Walnut half-stocks with checkered wrists and shaped cheekpieces Barrels retained by transverse wedges with metal escutcheons Wooden ramrods and sling fittings present Both actions are reported to function properly Caliber or gauge has not been measured Condition Both guns display substantial age and honest use. The barrel and lock surfaces have an aged gray appearance with scattered discoloration, oxidation, light pitting and evidence of previous cleaning. Considerable portions of the inlaid inscriptions, decorative scrollwork and horse-and-rider marks remain visible. The walnut stocks exhibit numerous scratches, dents, abrasions and old carved or scratched markings. The checkering remains visible but shows age and handling wear. The wood has an aged finish with areas of discoloration and evidence of previous care or refinishing. Both guns appear substantially complete, including their percussion hammers, double triggers, barrel wedges, ramrods and sling fittings. The hammers cock and release, and the actions are functional. Bore condition, barrel-wall thickness and the originality of every individual component have not been independently verified. Important Condition Notice: These antique muzzleloaders have not been test-fired. Although both actions are functional, the bores, nipples, breech areas, barrel-wall thickness and overall suitability for firing have not been independently evaluated. The guns are offered as antique collectibles in their present condition. Neither gun should be loaded or fired unless it has first been thoroughly inspected and approved by a qualified gunsmith experienced with antique percussion firearms and antique barrel construction. A noteworthy matching-numbered pair of ornate German percussion sporting guns bearing the name and marks of the historic Kuchenreuter gunmaking tradition. The matching numbers, surviving maker inscriptions, extensive barrel decoration and functional actions distinguish the pair from the more commonly encountered individual continental muzzleloading sporting gun.