December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/11/2024
For another example that recently sold and is signed M. Fry, see lot 175 in the August 23, 2024 sale at Rock Island Auctions. The rifle sold at the previously mentioned sale and another of the same pattern were published and discussed in two KRA Bulletin articles written by David A. Madary in Volume 32, No. 1 and another article in 2010 titled "Military Short Rifles Made By Martin Fry, of York, Pennsylvania." The other gun that is pictured in the article is listed as being property of the U.S. Air Force Academy. The Madary article states that a third rifle of this pattern was also identified, which may be this rifle. It is believed that this pattern was possibly made for a particular militia as there are no government markings on them. Martin Fry produced rifles for militia use in the late 18th century and worked as a government subcontractor in the early 1800s. The rifle has a deeply rifled eight groove octagon barrel with a brass front blade sight and notched iron rear sight. The right flat towards the muzzle has a 4-1/2" provision for sword bayonet attachment. The lock is Germanic in style. The brass furniture includes a two piece patchbox, York sideplate and buttplate with release button on top. Plain maple stock of York County, Pennsylvania form. Wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel retains a spotted brown and grey patina. Lock appears to be a modern replacement. Brass polished and shows some marks from use. Stock shows some age cracks, minor chips and marks from use. A very rare short rifle.
Manufacturer
Martin Fry, Attributed
Model
Kentucky Short Rifle