RARE J.P. Hubbard DAY’S PATENT Walking Stick Percussion Gun Circa 1850

SOLD FOR: $1525

WOA#: 230525DW016WY

Make: J.P. HUBBARD

Model: DAY’S PATENT Walking Stick Percussion Gun

Country:  Britain

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1850

Markings: There is a crest on the shaft just below the left side of the handle marked “HUBBARD 26 NEWGATE ST” as well as “DAY’S PATENT”.   There are two proofs on the shaft.

Caliber: 20 Gauge Smoothbore

Barrel Length: 28 ?”

Bore Condition:  The smoothbore has some corrosion throughout but no heavy pitting.    The bore is in Very Good condition for antique.

Action Type: Single Shot, Percussion, Underhammer (Day’s Patent).

Shaft Material:  Iron

Handle Style & Material:  Short L-Shape Wood Handle

Ferrule Type & Material:  None. Exposed Shaft.

Mechanics: This is an Under Hammer Percussion cane.  The hammer swivels out from the shaft along with the trigger that locks in place allowing a percussion cap to be placed on the nipple. The trigger pull releases the hammer down and the trigger fits back nearly flush with the shaft.

Condition:  This antique cane is in Very Good overall Condition for of course said antique.  There is some oxidation on the metal parts and a deep patina.  The wood on the handle is unmarred.   Please see photos for a better understanding of this cane’s condition.

Our Assessment:   The J.P. Hubbard Day’s Patent Walking Stick Percussion Gun is a fascinating piece of history that transports us back to the days when firearms often doubled as decorative or functional items. This particular walking stick gun embodies the height of ingenuity and craftsmanship of the 19th century. Built primarily as a concealed weapon for personal defense, it represents an era where firearm innovation met everyday practicality. Often crafted from high-quality wood for the stick and featuring intricate designs, these walking stick guns were as much a fashion statement as they were a utilitarian tool.

The percussion cap mechanism in Day’s Patent models provided a reliable ignition system, which was a significant advancement over the earlier flintlock systems. The trigger mechanism is often subtly integrated into the handle or shaft, designed to be unobtrusive until needed. This unique configuration allowed the user to fire the weapon with relative ease and surprise, making it an intriguing choice for personal protection during an era when threats could appear with little warning.

The J.P. Hubbard Day’s Patent Walking Stick Percussion Gun is a remarkable testament to the innovative spirit of its time. More than just a weapon, it reflects an attitude toward personal security that prized both subtlety and sophistication. These walking stick guns have since become sought-after collectibles, each one offering a snapshot into a bygone era of elegance and ingenuity.