The numbers on your single barrel are patent dates, August 11, 1896, August 14, 1900 and May 26, 1907 but only help in dateing the gun by prooving it was made after May 26, 1907. I have no idea who made it but I would not take for granted it is safe to use with modern ammunition... even the ammunition you have probably already used in it.
I would have it checked by a competent gunsmith.
As for the Browning, I can't tell you much about it except that the crown is a Belgium proof mark and the number, 16-70, means 16 gauge bore and 2 3/4" chamber (70mm). Some folks can date the gun from the serial number. Nice gun, for sure.
I would have it checked by a competent gunsmith.As for the Browning, I can't tell you much about it except that the crown is a Belgium proof mark and the number, 16-70, means 16 gauge bore and 2 3/4" chamber (70mm). Some folks can date the gun from the serial number. Nice gun, for sure.
