This unsigned rifle came to me about a year ago. That's as far back as I can trace the provenance, although I, and several other persons of some knowledge, believe it was made in the late 70's. The lock is dated by the lock maker 1975. Here are the details:
I believe the furniture came from the Hawken Shop in St. Louis. During this era Art Riesel (sp) was contracting makers to build rifles using his parts..
The patch box seems to be non standard design and some irregularity shows the maker probably created the profile from a larger frame. Another detail is the very nice grease pit under the patch box lid. The carving is elegant.
The rifle has a 34" Wm Large bbl of 54 caliber. Square cut land/grooves.
The barrel appears to have a VERY slight taper from 1+" at the breech.
The lock was made by H.W. Robbins, a lock maker in the 60's – 70's who lived in Michigan.
Interestingly, I've been told that he lived in a wheel chair and had his machine shop set up so he could work. It is a beautiful piece of work.
All of the inletting is excellent and the lock sits in a inlet that is clean and professionally carved.
The maker installed a sheet metal wear plate on the belly of the forearm exactly where the rifle would rest when mounted crossway's on a horse. I've never seen this clever piece of added embellishment .
The stock is a beautiful piece of maple with no damage. It is clear this rifle has been well cared for over the years.
The rifle weighs 9+ pounds
The hickory RR is tapped for 8-32 jags, etc.
Price (including shipping) $2150
I believe the furniture came from the Hawken Shop in St. Louis. During this era Art Riesel (sp) was contracting makers to build rifles using his parts..
The patch box seems to be non standard design and some irregularity shows the maker probably created the profile from a larger frame. Another detail is the very nice grease pit under the patch box lid. The carving is elegant.
The rifle has a 34" Wm Large bbl of 54 caliber. Square cut land/grooves.
The barrel appears to have a VERY slight taper from 1+" at the breech.
The lock was made by H.W. Robbins, a lock maker in the 60's – 70's who lived in Michigan.
Interestingly, I've been told that he lived in a wheel chair and had his machine shop set up so he could work. It is a beautiful piece of work.
All of the inletting is excellent and the lock sits in a inlet that is clean and professionally carved.
The maker installed a sheet metal wear plate on the belly of the forearm exactly where the rifle would rest when mounted crossway's on a horse. I've never seen this clever piece of added embellishment .
The stock is a beautiful piece of maple with no damage. It is clear this rifle has been well cared for over the years.
The rifle weighs 9+ pounds
The hickory RR is tapped for 8-32 jags, etc.
Price (including shipping) $2150
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