The appeal of a period-correct fowler goes beyond aesthetics: it’s about provenance, mechanical detail, and shootability. Collectors and practical shooters who value historical authenticity will find depth of interest in late-18th century firearms with verified markings and service history.

MUSKETEER RIFLES SUPERCHARGED AMERICAN NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTIONARY WAR FOWLER .81CAL is an NSN firearm dated circa 1775–1783 with an octagonal-to-round 41.75″ barrel. The barrel bears an “SE” with a fleur-de-lis—an unmistakable St. Etienne mark—and a “US” surcharge near the breech. The lock plate originates from a British Sea Service 1756 pattern musket, stamped “Broad Arrow, Crown/GR” forward of the hammer and “IORDAN/1760″ to the rear. The cherry wood stock follows early Pennsylvania rifle cues but features a notably short 10” butt section from plate to rear of the lock and a smaller-than-normal trigger guard consistent with a shooter of smaller stature. A crack and localized wood loss on the right side are recorded. This Fowler appeared in the November 1996 issue of The Gun Report and was once in the collection of Bill Ahearn. Shop this product

Design and Markings: What Makes This Fowler Distinct

This example pairs French St. Etienne proofing with British Sea Service hardware—an uncommon hybrid that tells a migration story of parts and service. The 41.75″ octagonal-to-round barrel delivers the long sight radius prized in period rifles, while the “US” surcharge by the breech suggests U.S. government inspection or reissue. The short butt and reduced trigger guard point to a shooter-specific alteration or original small-stature design, a detail important to restorers and historians.

Ballistics and Caliber Context

The .81 caliber ball is a heavy projectile by modern standards and reproduces period ballistics: significant momentum at short to moderate ranges, effective for large-game hunting or historically accurate demonstrations. As a single shot, it rewards deliberate shooting and load consistency. Condition issues such as the noted crack mean any live-fire use should be preceded by gunsmith inspection and appropriate conservation.

Category: Single Shot — Brand: Musketeer Rifles — Model: Various — Price: $12,500.99. View product details and pricing on the shop page: View product details and pricing

Collector and Shooter Considerations

Provenance such as publication in The Gun Report and prior ownership by a noted author increases historical value. Restoration must balance preservation of original markings—St. Etienne, Broad Arrow/Crown/GR, and IORDAN/1760—with structural repair of the stock. For buyers seeking authenticity and documented history, this Single Shot fowler represents a rare intersection of national markings and mixed-service components. Check current availability and purchase options here: Check current availability

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