A.B.T. and J.F. Frantz Gun Game Models:
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Model A This is the one that started it all, way back in 1925. The Model A had 5 targets that got smaller from left to right. Hitting a target dropped a flag with a colored dot on it. Scores were manually added up by the shooter. With only five shots for a penny, a perfect score was possible but very difficult. A fully restored Model A, or Target Skill as it is also known, sells for around $1,500 to 1,800. Click on the photo to enlarge it. |
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Keeney Model A A.B.T. private labeled machines for certain other manufacturers during this time. Here is a Model A made for Keeney. It had their name on the small marquee and they also put their own stamp on it by adding small touches like colored paint on screws to aid in disassembling and a play counter. A surprising number of this model have survived. A fully restored Keeney Model A sells for around $1,500 to 1,800 and perhaps more to a collector of Keeney machines. Click on the photo to enlarge it and also see other views of the game. |
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Model B The Model B came out in 1926 and was a payout version of the Model A. Versions with 3 targets and 1 target were also made. A perfect score gave you a souvenir Sharpshooter Medal that came out of the slot in the rear left side. To see a sample of this award token, click here. This game is rarely seen. My best guess on a value would be around $4,000 to 4,500. Click on the photo to enlarge it. |
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Big Game Hunter (Model C) The next popular model was officially dubbed the Model C, but it usually known by its other name, the Big Game Hunter. This model was also available as a kit for folks that wanted to convert a Model A to a newer and more exciting game. Hitting the target caused the reel above it to spin, like a slot machine, and the ending combination of big game animals could possibly give the shooter an award based on the award card that was included with the game. To see a photo of one of the award cards, click here. This game was also available with cigarette packs or numbers on the reels. Matching up 3 of a brand would win the shooter a pack of cigarettes and a combination of red, white and blue reels also was a winner. To see a photo of the different reels made, click here. A fully restored Big Game Hunter would sell for around $1,500 to 1,800. Click on the photo to enlarge it and also see other views of the game. |
