September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
40" barrel in .50 bore-flintlock. Martin Frye operated his gun shop in York, Pa. in the latter part of the 18th century. Reference books will find his last name spelled “Frey” and “Frye”. This rifle was built and signed by him on the barrel flat and is a rather utilitarian example in that there is no patch box, toe plate, or any ornamentation of any kind, aside from some delicate stock carving at the wrist. The rifle sports a octagon to round barrel with a fixed rear sight. The lock was manufactured by E.K. Tryon of Philadelphia, Pa., which would place this rifle circa 1820s. Lock and barrel are a smooth brown patina with a single fixed rear sight and small blade front. It has a beautifully finished striped stock. Rod is retained by three brass thimbles and the barrel is pinned. It is a single trigger. There is a break at rear trigger guard tang, looks to be a replacement piece. Has a simple brass rifle buttplate. Wood is in excellent condition. Brass has never been cleaned. Nice early 19th century York long rifle/smooth bore.