November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2022
Extra fine raised carved Kentucky Flint lock rifle signed in script "J. Metzger" and former Kindig Collection. Jacob Metzger Senior originally worked in Lancaster, Pennsylvania then moved to Frederick Town, Maryland, with working dates circa 1765 to 1837. A really splendid example of Metzger's work and one of the best exhibited by Mr. Hartzler at the 2021 Kentucky Rifle Association, with his winning of the Top Educational Award. Rifle has 45 - 3/4" slightly swamped octagon .58 caliber smoothbore barrel with rifle sights. Barrel is signed in light script "J. METZGER". Rifle appears to be original flint with some small springs possibly changed and controlled with a single trigger with provision for rear set trigger (missing). Fine raised carved 2" wide butt curly maple stock with "C" scroll pattern behind cheek, typical Metzgar raised "Q" style wrist carving, dished beavertail pattern behind lock, and backplate with brass hardware. 2 coin silver inlays including a silver thumbpiece and engraved hunter's star on cheek. Nicely carved cheekpiece with pic holder loops underneath. Engraved brass 4 piece patchbox with 1 piercing and large 4-point daisy finial. Comes with hardwood ramrod and consignor research packet. Pictured on pg. 112 of "Gunsmiths of Marlynad" by Hartzler and Whisker, and on pg. 515 no. 215 in "Thoughts on the Kentucky Rifle in Its Golden Age" by Joe Kindig, Jr. PROVENANCE: Ex. Joe Kindig. CONDITION: Metal has turned to a silvery brown patina with light pitting, brass has a pleasing unpolished patina. In Kindig's book, rifle is shown with brass repair behind tailpipe. This has been removed with cracks still showing. Wood has some shrinkage around lock with wood showing usage dings and marks. Dark bore and soft mechanics. Great rifle. DLM