June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
This is a unique rifle that was manufactured for marksmanship, trials or early long range military target rifle. A full letter from Springfield research accompanies this rifle, explaining all aspects. According to Wayne Gagner, this rifle was built using extremely rare U.S. American Eagle 1883 dated lock and 1870 receiver with corresponding hammer with shield pattern checkering. Also has a model 1873 breech block. The walnut stock is an early long wrist with original metal pistol grip. The cursive "P" inspectors stamp is placed behind the grip and stock bears no other inspector marks. The custom rear sight is stamped "Model 27" with the maker "L.W. Tisdel" stamped on leaf (Scranton, Pennsylvania). Front sight is also a custom German nickel with the trapdoor protective hood. Tisdel built custom long range and target rifles, as well as modifying U.S. military weapons. The letter states "It is unknown if he made it for a customer or if it was submitted to Springfield Armory for a test and an offer to sell his sights for long range shooting ... This example is a one of a kind manufacture of unique design for sights and unique use of military parts." Rifle remains in excellent condition. The barrel retains a mix of blue-brown patina, some bright with minor age freckling and stamped with V.P. eagle head on left side. The receiver never had a serial number. The 1873 block has an additional "S" stamp and is basically grey-brown patina. Traces of color on tang. Lock and hammer are basically patina. Both barrel bands are stamped with "U". Trigger guard is grey patina. Has two sling swivels and an original ramrod. Buttplate is stamped U.S. Stock is excellent with just a few minor abrasions. Perfect action with a clean, strong rifled bore. Beautiful, one of a kind, trapdoor with rare 1883 lock and a forth coming article from Springfield research magazine.
Caliber/Bore
.45-70 Carbine