November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
For a nearly identical rifle with the same patchbox, similar carving, and the same cheekpiece inlay, see rifle number 112 on page 270 of "Thoughts on the Kentucky Rifle in it's Golden Age, Annotated Third Edition" by Joe Kindig, Jr. The.52 caliber rifled fully octagonal barrel measures 43" and has a brass front blade sight and a notched iron rear sight. The top flat is inscribed "P. Berry". The hand-forged lock has a flat plate with a molded tail and beveled edges. The brass furniture includes a classic four-piece pierced Peter Berry patchbox, the lid convex, and the finial features a three-petaled flower. Skirts and finials have simple scroll engraving, and the patchbox release is a rectangular iron button on the toe plate. Classic Peter Berry sideplate and faceted trigger guard. Ramrod entry ferrule tang is tombstone shaped and the barrel is retained by three brass pins with a nose cap engraved with a wedding band at the back. The stock is of highly figured maple and displays classic Lebanon County form. The left side is profusely carved with relief scrolls and floral designs. There are relief panels terminating in teardrops around the lock and sideplate, as well as relief scrollwork around the barrel tang. There are incised designs around the ramrod entry ferrule and in front of the trigger guard tang. CONDITION: Barrel retains a pitted heavy brown surface. Lock has been professionally reconverted to flint and functions properly. Brass furniture shows a mostly mustard patina, with scattered marks from use, and wear. Front trigger guard tang has been partially replaced or a break has been repaired. Stock shows some wear and roughness around carving. Stock was once broken through and has been repaired through the front of the trigger guard tang. A few splinters have been replaced along each side of the forend, and about 27-1/4" of the forend have been professionally replaced, as well as some minor piercing along the ramrod entry ferrule. There is also some wood replaced above the front lock tang and between the rear lock tang and the barrel tang. DMG
Model
Flintlock Kentucky Rifle