116: Blunderbusses, Muff Guns and Howdahs: The Antique Auction You Can’t Miss | No Lowballers

The No Lowballers crew is back with returning guest Dwight Van Brunt of Sportsman’s Legacy for an episode steeped in the golden age of gunmaking. Dwight joins Logan and Allen to talk about one of the most remarkable private collections ever to hit GunBroker.com — a single-owner estate featuring over a hundred fine firearms, including paired dueling pistols, percussion antiques and multi-barrel curiosities from the 1800s.

The discussion dives into the artistry, innovation and global provenance behind these pieces — and how one man’s lifelong pursuit of fine firearms has culminated in a once-in-a-lifetime auction event.

Key Topics

• A Collector’s Legacy: Dwight explains how this extraordinary collection came from one dedicated individual whose passion for fine firearms spanned decades and continents.
• Paired Pistols & Pepperboxes: From Wesley Richards to Frank Wesson, the team explores the evolution of early multi-barrel pistols and the craftsmanship behind cased pairs.
• Hunting with Howdahs: The long-lost tradition of hunting big cats with howdah pistols — and why these double-barreled powerhouses still fascinate collectors.
• Innovation Before Revolvers: Logan highlights how early gunsmiths solved the multi-shot problem before Samuel Colt’s design dominated the scene.
• Provenance & Paper Trails: Dwight walks through the meticulous recordkeeping, European auction sources and import paperwork that give these antiques ironclad authenticity.
• Blunderbusses and Bayonets: The gang debates plural forms of “blunderbuss” while admiring Henry Nock’s iconic flintlock — complete with a folding bayonet.
• Big Bores and Big Names: The trio marvels over Wilkinson’s 80-bore pistols, Lang’s stunning craftsmanship and how both names echo through firearms history.
• Cordite, Gravy, and Gunbroker: As the episode wraps, the crew dreams up seasonal promotions like “Black Powder Friday,” “Cordite Christmas,” and “Nitro Express New Year.”

Auction Details

• Collection Launch: November 16
• Auction Ends: November 30
• Where to Bid: GunBroker.com
• Presented By: Sportsman’s Legacy

Explore these finely curated firearms — from dueling pistols to percussion-era masterpieces — all with rich provenance and museum-quality condition.

Closing Thoughts

As Dwight notes, every firearm in this auction carries not just history but the opportunity to continue it. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply a fan of finely crafted firearms, this episode is a masterclass in what makes antique arms so enduringly captivating.

Allen, Logan, and Dwight leave listeners with one takeaway: “Pour yourself a big glass of gravy, open GunBroker and start bidding — Black Powder Friday has arrived.”

Join the Conversation:
Are there some items on here you’ve never heard of? Are you game to fire off the .80-caliber handgun? What’s your favorite store-brand firearm find? Let us know in the comments!

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