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OFFICERS FRENCH & INDIAN WAR FLINTLOCK RIFLE-1750

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
OFFICERS FRENCH & INDIAN WAR FLINTLOCK RIFLE-1750
The pre Rev War lock is stamped "BARRELET" a famous French family that dates back to the Medieval era. Left side of barrel has two proof marks. The octagon to round barrel measures 42.5". Bore measures .70. Brass furniture to include three tubes, period wood rod, engraved stacked arms side plate, engraved butt plate, engraved trigger guard. Full length walnut stock with Brown Bess style stock that has 313 stamped near side plate. Fore-end has a sling hole but no swivel. Condition. Extremely clean gun. Brass has tone. Stock is excellent with usual dings, a small hairline at butt., and an expert repair at comb. Iron has turned a homogenous patina. Set trigger still works correctly. Bore is rifled ! and still crisp. Rifling was rarely seen during this era but the historic event at " the Battle of Saratoga, wilderness settler and rifleman, Tim Murphy, was ordered specifically by Benedict Arnold to target an officer vigorously directing and supporting troops. Spotting General Simon Fraser of the Twenty-fourth Foot, Murphy lifted his ‘grove bore’ rifle and mortally wounded Fraser at three hundred yards" This would have been a very expensive rifle at the time and more elaborate than standard trade musket or militia rifle. A very rare French officers rifled musket from the French & Indian wars and most likely carried over to the Rev. War. ANTIQUE