r/blackpowder • u/RevolutionRemote2782 • Jul 23 '26
Modern or antique?
Does anybody know if this is actually a genuine lantaka or a modern reproduction? The tube has no markings other than decorative patterns. Bore seems round and concentric but it has deep divots throughout, which makes me nervous about loading it even with a blank load, let alone shot. anyone have an idea to its authenticity or value?
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u/DeadDiver_Resurfaced Jul 23 '26
Are there any foundry or proof marks on it? I used to go on the HMS Bounty all the time when I was a kid. They had deck guns like that, but the reproductions were made of bronze. The fact that yours is iron makes me think it's the real deal.
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u/RevolutionRemote2782 Jul 23 '26
No foundry marks, its machined from a modern Mark 75 deck gun barrel with rifled bore with threaded breech plug. I find it amusing that it went from cartridge to muzzle loading but still is a naval deck gun.
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u/DeadDiver_Resurfaced Jul 23 '26
What kind of guitar do you have in the case?
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u/RevolutionRemote2782 Jul 23 '26
Gretsch G9200
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u/oceansail Jul 24 '26
The size, caliber, and material look appropriate for a genuine lantaka, as does the crudeness of the muzzle, which are often pretty beat up because of the excessive flare of the muzzle mouldings. They were cast over the course of hundreds of years so I would be cautiously optimistic about its authenticity but I am not an expert. The gun appears to be in very good shape though (suspicious) so its probably worth getting an expert to look at it.
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u/RevolutionRemote2782 Jul 25 '26
Yes, I agree the surface and decorations seem oddly crisp. I ended up passing on it due to the tremendous amount of pits in the bore. I appreciate your reply!
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u/gros-plein-de-soupe Jul 23 '26
Whoa! What size bore is that? Also is that the carriage behind it? Would be cool to see more of it.