I am a new forum member. I purchased a "relic" rifle in an auction and am planning on restoring it. I have hunted with muzzleloaders for 30+ years, but am new to the flintlock world. I would like any help I can get as to the style (school?) and period this rifle was made in and any advice on a HC replacement lock. The rifle is 51" overall, with a .40 caliber 35" barrel. The matchbox is interesting in that it has a federal shield and 5 arrows engraved in it (possible revolutionary symbols?). There is both a buttstock and a foreshock molding cut in on each side. There is a hole for a vent pick drilled under the cheekpiece. The ramrod pipes are formed from sheet brass. The barrel has a faint signature on the top flat. It appears to be a first initial "M" and a last name starting with possibly a "B" written in script. I included a flash photo and a photo without flash. the photo without flash shows some inscription that is invisible to the naked eye, but it is a little blurry. Any advice and/or help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks Guys!
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left-buttstock 2.jpg312.3 KB · Views: 235
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signature-flash 2.jpg137 KB · Views: 196
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signature-no-flash 2.jpg72.4 KB · Views: 200