Ep 4. Axe Mortar Gun/Trapdoor Springfield Surprise

In the fourth episode of season two of American Guns, viewers are introduced to two unique firearms. The first is the Axe Mortar Gun, a weapon that combines a Springfield rifle with a small mortar that can be attached to the end of the barrel. The gun's owner, a man named Johnny, enlists the help of Rich and his team to restore the piece to its former glory.

As they work, Rich and Johnny discuss the gun's history, which Johnny believes dates back to the American Civil War. The team must carefully disassemble the weapon and replace any worn or damaged parts. They also custom build a wooden stock for the gun that is both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing.

Once the restoration is complete, Johnny and the American Guns crew take the Axe Mortar Gun to a shooting range to see how it performs. Despite some initial concerns about the accuracy of the mortar attachment, the team is impressed with the gun's power and accuracy.

The second firearm featured in this episode is a Trapdoor Springfield Surprise, which is brought to the shop by a collector named John. The gun is unique in that it has been heavily customized with ornate carvings and inlays.

John and the American Guns team examine the gun in detail, taking note of each of the intricate designs and embellishments. They also notice that the gun appears to have been reverse engineered from another Trapdoor Springfield.

Rich and his team are tasked with restoring the gun to its original condition while preserving its one-of-a-kind decorations. They carefully clean and polish the metal components, and replace any broken or missing pieces. The wooden stock proves to be more challenging, as the delicate inlays and carvings require a steady hand and a meticulous eye for detail.

After several days of work, the Trapdoor Springfield Surprise is restored to its original condition, with each design and inlay looking as good as new. The owner is thrilled with the result, and takes the gun to a firing range to try it out.

Overall, the fourth episode of American Guns season two offers viewers a fascinating glimpse into the world of custom gun restoration. From the unique design of the Axe Mortar Gun to the intricate carvings of the Trapdoor Springfield Surprise, each firearm is a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of gun collectors and enthusiasts.