F. Geissinger Heidelberg Drilling, Triple-Barrel 20 Gauge with Rifled Lower Barrel, 28-inch Damascus Barrels, External Hammers, Germany
This rare German drilling by F. Geissinger of Heidelberg pairs two 20-gauge shotgun barrels over a rifled lower barrel in a classic triple-barrel layout. It features a 28-inch pattern-welded Damascus barrel set, external side hammers, and tasteful light scroll engraving. Maker-marked and built with period craftsmanship, it stands out as a collectible example with distinctive Damascus barrels and traditional German styling.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Fouling: Mild Fouling - Light buildup of fouling or dirt.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal shows significant markings and finish wear from prior handling and use, with areas of corrosion observed. The left hammer produces light strikes. The lower (rifled) barrel caliber could not be determined and should be verified by a qualified gunsmith before use. The stock exhibits cracking that does not extend all the way through. The bores are generally clean but show wear and some pitting.
A full gunsmith evaluation is recommended prior to firing.
What’s Included
- F. Geissinger Heidelberg Drilling triple-barrel combination gun
This triple-barrel drilling has two 20-gauge smoothbore barrels over a rifled lower barrel, combining shotgun versatility with a single rifled option. The 28-inch Damascus barrel set has a full-length rib and is maker-marked F. Geissinger, Heidelberg, underscoring its German origin and period build.
The barrel rib carries a front bead and a folding express-style rear sight positioned mid-rib, giving a compact, practical sighting setup. The break-open action uses an extractor, and the gun is fitted with fore and aft sling swivels for carry.
Traditional external side hammers ride on back-action lockplates, paired with double triggers for straightforward barrel selection. A steel trigger guard with a scroll finial complements the functional layout, and the overall capacity is three.
The walnut stock features a Bavarian cheekpiece and hand-cut checkering, matched to a splinter forend with inlaid escutcheons. Light scroll and border engraving accents the locks and receiver, and the finish presents the patterned character of Damascus steel. Length of pull measures 14.5 inches.
Damascus Barrels




