December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/11/2024
Arguably, the most iconic and most sought after of any long range single shot 19th century target rifle. Years of production is 1876-1878. It is noted that these engraved Ballard A-1 rifles, done with a delicate border scroll engraving with large engraving on right side reading "LONG RANGE" and left side "BALLARD A-1" was the work of L. D. Nimschke as noted on pages 237 & 251 in the definitive Ballard book by John Dutcher. In this book, John details the A-1 rifle on pages 241-252. This , like all of the Long Range Ballard rifles, is a work of art with a higher degree of fit and finish not found on any other Ballard. This rifle has the tapered 34" octagon barrel, the long range Vernier sight (page 288), Marlin Ballard wind gauge front sight with spirit level slide/key (page 291) , engraved receiver as noted, deluxe high finish American walnut stock with hand cut checkered pistol grip and checkered steel shotgun style butt plate. The checkered forearm features the black horn tip. The action is worked by a lever. There was no provision for any rear barrel mounted sight. The top heel of stock has a plate that allows for placement of a Vernier tang sight. The Marlin legend is found on left side of receiver. The matching serial number is under the barrel. The trigger is checkered. This gun, by serial number, is listed on page 238. The cartridge is listed as a 44-100 Everlasting. CONDITION: Excellent. The stock has no splits at the wrist. There are several small dents caused by the Vernier sight on comb along with minor impressions. The forearm is in similar condition. The case color receiver has simply darkened with age with no real visible color. The engraving is sharp as new. The barrel has razer sharp edges and retains majority of rust blue with high edge wear. The lever is smooth patina. Screws are true with some nitre blue finish. The bore is sharp and bright.
Caliber/Bore
.44-100 EVERLASTING
Manufacturer
Marlin-Ballard
Paperwork
Previous description