This is a model 219B Savage in .45-70, used to fire a brass rod with line attached to stranded ships. You can also find barrels for the 219 in .30-30, .32-20, and .22 Hornet but I haven't had much luck in finding them. Wonder how this would do with harpoons?
Don't know, but I'm not going to volunteer for target duty Probably be ok for a small harpoon...or a bolt similar in size to those used for bow fishing.
I believe it was at one time and now reclassified as a Curio and Relic .. but the drum must remain attached. You take off the line drum and attempt to shoot it .. well you got yourself an SBR. With it attached you have an ordinary Non-Destructive firearm that can be bought and sold per GCA OF 1968 TITLE 18, UNITED STATE CODE, CHAPTER 44
It's probably not rifled or the line would twist and shorten the range dramatically. Is the date on it? ETA: They are still sold.
If it is not rifled then t can't be a sbr It's apparently a very early one Ghrit. The people at Bridger tried to trade me, their latest model for it.
Quartermaster or Lead Seaman used these. Always a good event,it gave us a chance at having the 700 feet of orange cord to use on those long trips at sea. Still considered a fire arm and under lock and key. Product Description NAVAL COMPANY, Bridger Line Gun Kit - Rock N Rescue Capable of throwing a line up to 850′ (259 M) or more depending on the cartridge and line used. This extremely accurate 45-70 caliber gun is used by the U. S. Military, U. S. Coast Guard and many leading fire departments. U.S. Coast Guard approved #160.031/6/3. Includes gun, lines, cartridges, cleaning kit and supplies, plus a sturdy storage case. Weight 48 lb. (21.8 kg). Made in the U.S.A. Comes complete with: 1 – Bridger Model 85 Line Gun w/cannister & instructions 1 – Wooden Box 10 – Brass Projectiles 4 – 140 lb. Test Nylon Shot Lines 700′ (2 Tan & 2 Orange) 3 – Rewinding Spindles 25 – Blank heavy Loads 1 each – Gun Oil, Cleaning Rod, Wire Brush, Cleaning Patches & Cleaning Solvent. See below for replacement parts. NOTE: This item is considered to be a firearm and as such sales of this item must meet all rules and regulations of the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. We must receive an original signed purchase order in the mail from your government organization!
Any one know/Remember if these were origional made by A.H.Fox? I seem to remember seeing one while training with the Coasties and I could swear It said A.H.Fox on the barrel! I have a Fox side by side .12 ga, and the receiver even looked the same. I also know A.H. Fox sold arms to Savage arms, maybe this is the connection, and if so may change the value considerably.
