HARMONICA GUNS

Harmonica guns refer to a firearms configuration where a sliding bar resembling a mouth organ/harmonica has chambers cut into it (typically 3-5) enbabling the pistol or rifle to become a repeater. The horizontal bar feed system was available in pin fire, percussion, and with metallic cartridges, and is manually moved after each individual shot is fired. This unusual repeating system never gained popularity in the United States (rifles mostly), but was manufactured in some quantities in Europe, mostly France, including pistols. American made harmonica guns may or may not have manufacturer markings. Far and away the most recognized and desirable harmonica guns are those rifles made by Mormon gunsmith Jonathan Browning, who made a 5-shot gun advertised as the "Slide Repeater" circa 1850s. Please refer to individual listings under Browning and Francis Schopp, located in the B and S sections.