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Original 1860's target rifle

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MLake

32 Cal.
Joined
Jul 18, 2018
Messages
32
Reaction score
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Hello All,

I also posted in the firearms identification page, but since I know what it is, and I'm really busy looking for more information on it, I figured I should post it here as well. You guys (and gals) are all a huge help a few months ago when I needed help with info on a custom flintlock that I bought. I'm hoping to tap into your collective wealth of information again!

I recently purchased this .45 caliber targer rifle that I believe to be original to about 1860. The only markings on it are "D. BLOOM Ganges, Ohio" and four star designson the front of the barrel. I was told that this was possibly a union sniper rifle early in the civil war, before troops were issued any. I find this hard to believe due to the condition that its in, but I'm no historian. It has a single set trigger, with no markings on the lock. I bought it from a gentleman in Michigan, who purchased it from an estate sale in Colorado. I don't have many more details than that, but would love any help that you can provide. Please let me know if any different pictures would help.

Thanks,

Matt

https://flic.kr/s/aHsmsfbd8F
 
Looking at the OP's photos, and the one here, I strongly suspect that the OP's rifle has been restocked long after originally made.
 
I agree, here is the flintlock that the forum members helped me gain info. on a few months back. I prefer flintlocks as well, but couldn't pass up the deal when this one came up.

https://flic.kr/s/aHsmoUVK4A
 
Thanks for that, it's an option that I haven't even considered. What should I look for to help determine if the gun has been restocked?
 
Matt, here is more. I believe this is shorthand for the 1860 census entry, which I will look for. It would appear that in 1860, David Bloom, gunsmith, was 38, born in Pennsylvania and would die in 1899. That would mean he was born about 1822. Son Francis is listed as having been born in Ganges in about 1844.

1860 OH>Richland>Blooming Grove David Bloom 38 PA [d. 1/7/1899] gunsmith, Hester [m. 11/1843, Esther Gutschall, Richland Co.] 39 PA, Francis M. 16 OH, William P. 15 OH, Elizabeth 11 OH, Mary E. 8, Almira 6 OH, Cinderella 4 OH
 
Thank you so much, I'll go from there with this. I have to say, I'm a member of other forums for different topics, and this is by far the most helpful group. Especially compared to the Harley Davidson forum, I haven't found anyone to be an elitist, know it all, or have a bad attitude. Everyone has gone above and beyond to help me get information. Thanks again.
 
I'm inclined to agree about the restock, but as much for that palm rest as the fine wood and finish. I'm no expert, but I don't recall seeing a rear sight like that (or a palm rest) on any "sniper" rifles I've seen from the civil war.

Surely I'm exposing my ignorance more than adding facts, but to me it looks more like a rifle designed for offhand target shooting than long range shooting.
 
Interesting rifle. Non-expert here believes the rifle may indeed date ca. 1860. But, the sights, especially the front globe look like recent manufacture. The rear strikes me as a well done idea in from a modern machine shop. The Allen head screw looks very modern. Still a nice rifle.
 

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