Z8813 Early Eley Punt Gun Universal Shot Concentrator
Description: Offered is a scarce and desirable example of a large-bore Eley Universal Shot Cartridge, featuring the signature of Charles Eley (1797–1875) at the bottom of the label.
This early cartridge is believed to predate 1851, based on the use of the "C. Eley” mark rather than the later "Eley Brothers” label. The standard label color for Eley’s Universal Shot Concentrators was yellow, and this design is thought to have been introduced in the 1840s. Intended for use in a muzzleloading punt gun, this particular example was likely made for a bore size of approximately 1 3/16 inches and originally contained 10 ounces of British AAA shot (.20"). Remarkably, it still retains its original outer brown paper wrapper. The paper has separated at the top, resulting in minor leakage of bone dust, which is typical in examples of this age and construction.
The Universal Shot Cartridge was a significant transitional development in muzzleloading shotgun technology. Designed to replace the traditional shot-pouch, it offered pre-measured, self-contained shot charges that improved ease of loading and enhanced pattern performance. As noted in period advertising, it was described as "intended for general use, or entirely to supersede the shot-pouch,” and consisted of shot packed between layers of soft bone-dust without containing any wire. It was claimed to produce a shot spread equivalent to loose shot at five yards, while placing 25 percent more shot on target at 40 yards with greater force—providing all the advantages of a wire cartridge without the associated drawbacks. These cartridges were sold in packets of six dozen charges at a price of 4 shillings, competitively priced against loose shot.
This example was constructed with lead shot densely packed in bone-dust, which acted as a buffer to preserve shot shape and maintain consistent patterning. Unlike earlier experimental cartridges that relied on internal wire cages to hold the shot column together, this version was wire-free, making it safer for both barrels and game. The top wad was secured with twine, a detail consistent with early flintlock and percussion-era designs. Its materials and construction reflect the intense mid-19th century experimentation with alternative loading systems prior to the widespread adoption of fully enclosed paper and brass shell cartridges.
This cartridge represents an important chapter in the evolution of shotgun ammunition and sporting arms innovation. It is of particular interest to collectors of punt gun artifacts, large-bore ammunition, and early British cartridge development. Well-preserved examples of this type—especially in this size and with original labeling and wrapper intact—are exceptionally scarce and seldom offered for public sale.
Included with this listing is a photo showing this large-bore example alongside a standard 12-gauge shot concentrator to provide a sense of scale. Also included is an X-ray image of a similar cartridge, illustrating just how densely packed the lead shot is inside.
Measures: OAL 3.25” D 1.254” Weight 4,556 grains
Reference: "Early Shotgun Concentrators and Spreaders” Muckel, Pg. 9
Reference: "Eley Cartridges” Harding Pg. 34
Price: $195.00
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American Civil War Relics &
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