This beautiful long rifle was custom built using all original parts; and, according to the gun's original owner, is a direct copy of an original rifle in a private collection. The rifle shows some "Lehigh Valley - style influences, including a sloped "Roman Nose" stock, a front sight that was set back several inches from the muzzle, and the stylized relief carving. This makes this rifle appropriate for both Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Reenacting.
The highly figured maple stock was very nicely shaped, and was decorated with tasteful relief carving; which is not only correct for the time period and style of the rifle, but also very cleanly executed. In addition to the carved embellishments, the rifle also includes a neatly inletted "hunter's star" escutcheon in the forearm, as well as an antique elephant ivory inlay in the patchbox lid. The stock is in excellent condition, and there are no cracks or splits anywhere and no damage to speak of.
The lock is one of Jim Chamber's famous "Siler" locks. These locks are generally considered to be the highest quality flintlock on the market today; both in terms of reliability and historical accuracy. The cock holds solid on both full and half cock, and the frizzen sends a blinding shower of sparks flying with every pull of the trigger. Ignition is provided by a set of custom set triggers which also appear to have been produced by Chambers. The triggers work well, and hold reliably once set.
The barrel is lightly swamped and features a .54 caliber bore with crisp rifling and no rust or pitting.
The brass furniture is nicely fit and and appropriate for a Lehigh gun. The furniture, and the rest of the gun's steel components have been lightly aged to give the gun a warm look and feel.
This rifle would be a great choice for any competitor, hunter, or reenactor. This beautifully decorated custom piece can be yours all for a price that is comparable to many of Pedersoli's flintlocks.
