This is a percussion, half stock, heavy barreled target rifle from the 1840's - 1850's time period. It has an overall length of 48", with a barrel length of 31 3/4". The patina of the iron hardware matches the barrel perfectly. The bore gages out at .39 caliber and is dark with light pitting. The visible rifling is very faint, this one was probably a .36 caliber and has seen plenty of shooting! The barrel is stamped C. BATES, for Cord Bates of Thornton, New York. The American Gun Makers text shows him in business simply during the "percussion years". The unique feature of this octagon barrel is that the first 1/4" has been turned down. The lockplate is stamped with name of SPIES, for A.W. Spies of New York, New York. He is listed as being a gun maker from 1820 - 1851. He produced six shot percussion pepperbox pistols and octagonal barrel half stock target rifles, some with double set triggers. The barrel is retained by a single escutcheon and two tang screws. The ramrod pipes are secured to the bottom of the barrel. The wooden ramrod is copper tipped on both ends. The rear sight is heart shaped and screws into the barrel tang, with a small peep sight drilled into the center. The front sight is floating and is hooded. The mechanics of the lock work fine. The lock and hammer has some simple engraving along the perimeter of each. The butt plate and trigger guard are brass. The stock is in good condition, showing only a couple of small dings from normal handling. There are no cracks or wood loss anywhere in the wood. A pewter nose cap is used one the end of the stock. This is a nice example of mid 1800's craftsmanship used in the making of an early target rifle.

Item # AA1755

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