September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2024
Edwin Wesson began producing high quality target rifles around 1831 and moved his shop to Northborough, Massachusetts in 1842, where production continued until 1848. It was during this period, Edwin's younger brother Daniel Wesson, of Smith & Wesson fame, did his apprenticeship building these rifles. Wesson was also contracted for 1000 barrels and bullet molds by Samuel Colt for the Walker revolver, with Captain Walker also personally ordering a target rifle from Wesson in 1847 with intention of a 1000 rifle contract that never materialized. This circa 1842 to 1848 Wesson target rifle is stamped on the top flat of the octagon barrel "WESSON / NORTHBORO / MASS" and "CAST STEEL / 669" between a pair of Federal eagles. Fitted with a dovetailed German silver blade front sight, sporting rear missing the elevator, and folding tang mounted target lollipop aperture rear sight. Back action percussion lock marked "WESSON / NORTHBORO / MASS" operated by double set triggers. Half length walnut stock with pewter tip, figural trigger guard, patch box, and plated brass crescent butt plate. Complete with hickory ramrod retained by a pair of replacement copper ferrules. CONDITION: Good. Iron components display an even dark gray patina. Stock has been cleaned with scattered marks and some burn out near the lock. Action does not hold cock. A scarce early target rifle by an important maker.
Caliber/Bore
.36 Smoothbore