Original U.S. Pennsylvania Percussion Rifle by Henry E. Leman with Full Flame Maple Stock and Personalized Barrel - circa 1850

Original Item: Only One Available. Here is a very nice octagonal barreled "Kentucky" style rifle, which more correctly is known as a Pennsylvania Rifle. It is marked clearly on the lock plate with LEMAN / LANCTR.PA, for maker HENRY E LEMAN, who worked in Lancaster from 1812 until 1887, and we feel this rifle started life as a Percussion weapon, and not a conversion from Flintlock. There may have also been markings on the top of the barrel, however they were removed, and a previous owner added C.D. SCHOCKEY BEARTOWN PA. with either a punch or engraving pen.

The heavy octagonal barrel is 39 1/4" long, with a bore measuring about 0.46", and has 6 groove rifling with a very slow rate of twist. The rifle measures 54 1/4" in overall length, and is full stocked, something we do not see often with this type of rifle. Even better, it is made from highly attractive "Tiger Flame" maple, which really pops in the light. This desirable wood was plentiful during the 19th Century, found in the abundant maple trees of the time. The rifle is all brass mounted, with a "pistol grip" style trigger guard for a more secure hold.

The stock is in very good shape, with no major damage that we can see. It has been finished with a dark brown varnish, typical of the period, which unfortunately does obscure the figuring of the wood somewhat. There is a repaired split on the left side of the stock by the lock screw, which has been stabilized by a stripe of brass nailed and screwed into the wood, which definitely looks to be period. There is a nice cheek piece carved into the left butt stock, typical of the German style. It still retains its original wooden ramrod, which has a steel fitting on the narrow end.

We checked the lock, and it is functional, but has no provision for a half cock. The original cap nipple cone is quite worn, and there is a good amount of powder burn around the breech area. The bore is still in very good shape, showing clear lands and grooves with a mostly bright finish. As mentioned previously the twist rate is very slow, and it almost looks straight at times.

A most attractive and interesting Pennsylvania Long Rifle, ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1850
Caliber: about 0.46"
Cartridge Type: Ball / Shot and Powder
Barrel Length: 39 1/4 Inches
Overall Length: 54 1/4 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle Loading

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