
This rifle is my interpretation and "blend" of two original rifles that were likely built by European trained gunsmiths working in mid 18th century Colonial America. Stylistically, it breaks from the large early Moravian rifles and treads into less familiar territory; perhaps northern Virginia, or elsewhere along great wagon road. It's a large and stout rifle, with heavy breech section giving weight to its 40.5" .58 caliber barrel. The cheek is long and full, with carved steps ahead and behind in keeping with earlier German rifles. With an overall weight just shy of 10lbs, the gun shoulders solidly, and has a broad buttpiece to distribute recoil comfortably on the shoulder. A rifle like this could conceivably have been used by riflemen throughout the American Revolution.
Layers of patina were applied to the wood and metal in an effort to make the rifle appear believable as a well cared for antique. As this rifle was built on speculation, the finish was highly experimental, with layers added and removed over time. This process was similar to what an actual antique would undergo, with years of use, cleaning, neglect, and refinishing through the course of its useful life.
This rifle is for sale
Layers of patina were applied to the wood and metal in an effort to make the rifle appear believable as a well cared for antique. As this rifle was built on speculation, the finish was highly experimental, with layers added and removed over time. This process was similar to what an actual antique would undergo, with years of use, cleaning, neglect, and refinishing through the course of its useful life.
This rifle is for sale