Help Identifying Trapdoor rifle

[Oldtimetroy]

Hello,
I am trying to identify this Trapdoor rifle that was found at an estate sale. It has some identification marks, but my eyes have a hard time with a couple of them. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.

[ironhorse1]

Converted Zulu shotgun

It's a French rifle with a swinging breech conversion.

https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/frances-tabatiere-breechloader/248773

There are quite a few parts missing and I'm curious if it is a smooth bore or rifled. The lack of sights makes me think that it is a shotgun.

I'm not sure what is holding things together with no barrel bands present.

irh

I just finished the linked article. A Zulu shotgun for the win.

[Oldtimetroy]

I believe you are correct. I was able to identify an "M" marking which lead me to French Rifles. It is indeed a smooth bore. So I believe you are spot on. Circa 1860s-1870 Snider style conversion. Zulu shot gun. Thanks for the info. Greatly appreciated. Aside from the barrel bands, is there anything else you can see that are missing. I believe the spring for the extractor is incorrect as it is large and feels too tight.

[Spaffo]

What's the value for a rifle like this. Pretty interesting.

[Oldtimetroy]

@Spaffo they seem to be relatively cheap. Probably could snag one for under $400. What I am finding is many videos on modifying modern 12 gauge shotgun shells to black powder loads. Which makes it affordable to shot for a 150 year old black powder gun.

[BillnotBob]

It looks to be one of the shotguns made from a french Tabatiere, I believe the basic translation is like a snuff box. The Tabatier is a Snider like conversion of a French musket. I believe the English sued the French over the patent.

[Oldtimetroy]

You are all spot on! I really appreciate all the help.

[hambam105]

Looks like a Trapdoor to me alright.