Signed “S N” in script, Unknown Maker, Winchester, VA/ Hampshire County, WV ca1820

Product Description

This rifle probably originated in or near Winchester, Virginia and was likely the work of a gunsmith associated with Simon Lauck or John Haymaker. The patchbox, trigger guard, cheek piece inlay, and side plate are in the Winchester style as well as the forestock molding. Architecturally it relates more to Hampshire County, (now) West Virginia and may have been restocked there. It has seen a lot of use but retains its original lock; a very good reconversion. The rifled barrel is 43.5 inches and about .50 cal. indicating an early period.

The rifle is in fair condition with old untouched surfaces. There is a strip of wood replaced on both sides of the forestock near the fore end cap and a piece replaced in front of the lock; all of which could be blended in a little better. The tang on the rear ramrod pipe is missing. “S N” probably apprenticed in Winchester with Haymaker or Lauck or may have been a journeyman there. This is a nicely decorated rifle from the flintlock period with old surfaces.

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