September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/11/2024
Manufactured during the Civil War era by Thomas Turner of Birmingham. Turner was well regarded for his rifling patent, which was among the best rifling patents to come out of England during the period as it was very efficient at staying accurate and clean even when used heavily. He also was a contractor to make the P1853 Enfield rifle musket, and examples of his Enfields have been observed as sold for Confederate use. The Confederacy used English target match rifles for their sharpshooters in the Civil War, with Kerr and Whitworth being the most noted. There have been a handful of Turners observed as well with real Confederate markings. On period ledgers, rifles of this type are referred to as "small bore Enfields", so while Kerr and Whitworth are the most noted, the Confederacy was not overly specific on what they were bringing in for use. Offered here is a very good condition P1853 match target rifle by Turner in classic configuration. Barrel is marked near rear sight with "Turners Patent" and underneath with Birmingham proofs, 32 bore marking, and the number "52", which is assumed to be a marking in caliber measurement. Barrel is also marked underneath with "Thomas Turner" as the barrel maker and "HH" inspector marking. This "HH" marking also appears on the inside of the lock, along with "T. Turner". Right side of stock wrist near lock is marked with "1539", probably a rack number. There are no known Confederate markings on this rifle. CONDITION: Excellent for its age, with fading original blue mixed with a brown patina, and minor freckling and handling marks throughout. Breech area shows signs of use, with freckling throughout. Ramrod and screws are difficult to pull, as the wood has swollen around them from not being apart for a considerable amount of time. Ramrod shows areas of handling marks consistent with being difficult to remove. Action is tight and crisp. Bore is bright with sharp rifling.
Manufacturer
Thomas Turner
Model
P1853 Match Target Rifle