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Antique American “Mule Ear” Percussion Sporting or Target Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:450.00 USD
Antique American “Mule Ear” Percussion Sporting or Target Rifle
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Antique American "Mule Ear" Percussion Sporting or Target Rifle, NVSN, .48 cal., heavy 36" round-to-octagonal barrel has turned ring at juncture, tiny blade front and large notched rear sights, is marked "1801" at breech; flat lockplate is unmarked with horizontal "mule-ear" hammer; brass furniture includes trigger guard with finger-rest at rear, crescent buttplate with long bottom tang, lock screw escutcheon and wedge. Halfstock of varnished walnut has rounded German silver patchbox with pointed finial, pewter nosecap, two iron ferrules retaining the hickory ramrod, raised aprons at either side of lock. Mfg'd ca.1840s-50s. Condition is very good, the barrel being smooth brown showing scattered light oxidation and heavy pitting at breech, 1" metal stress crack at right above nosecap; lock is clean gunmetal gray, brass with light age toning. Stock is sound and smooth showing just occasional marks. Unsure if "1801" barrel marking is a date; if so it came from an earlier gun. Action does not hold cock, smoothbore (perhaps used with "buck-and-ball" loads) appears clean with light frosting. Est.: $900-$1,200. (Antique)