Original U.S. Pennsylvania York County Flintlock Rifle Converted to 20 Bore Fowler with Full Flame Maple Stock and Signed Barrel - circa 1820

Original Item: Only One Available. Here is a very nice octagonal barreled "Kentucky" style flintlock rifle, which more correctly is known as a Pennsylvania Rifle. The lock looks to be an unmarked "Trade Lock", acquired locally. There is no "WARRANTED" marking, so it does not look to have been imported, but there is really not any way to tell without a detailed analysis of the style and components. There is a script marking on the top of the barrel, however it is worn and we are not able to decipher it. The style of fittings and the side plate in particular points to manufacture in York County, Pennsylvania.

The octagon to round two stage barrel is 48" long, with a bore measuring about 0.625", and has been smoothbored to use as a 20 bore fowling piece. It is possible that it was originally made as a fowler, but often those would not have any type of sights on the barrel, and this example definitely has front and rear sights. The gun measures and impressive 63" 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, and really looks great.

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 has now worn enough for the figuring in the wood to easily be seen. There is a repaired crack on the left side of the stock by the lock screw, but otherwise we cannot see any other cracks, damage, or repairs. It still retains a wooden ramrod, which is probably a working life replacement.

We checked the lock, and it is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing only at full. There is a good amount of powder burn near the touch hole, so it looks to have seen long use, possibly enough to wear out the rifle and necessitate smooth-boring.

A most attractive and interesting Pennsylvania Flintlock Long Rifle converted to 20 bore Fowler, ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1820
Caliber: about 0.620" - 20 Bore
Cartridge Type: Ball / Shot and Powder
Barrel Length: 48 Inches
Overall Length: 63 Inches
Action type: Side Action Flint Lock
Feed System: Muzzle Loading

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