[b4uhad1]

Hello! I ran across an old percussion rifle at an estate sale and picked it up, and was wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction for identification? I cannot find any markings other than and "X". I'm trying to upload photos but keep getting an error...

 

[hrf]

Welcome to TFF.

Hope you didn't invest much, as looks like the result of an unskilled person's do it yourself attempt.

The barrel and hardware resemble parts of a cheap European small caliber trade gun made for export.

 

[b4uhad1]

Only $35, which is worth the fun of trying to find out what it is! Could you put a date range to it?

 

[Hawg]

Can you get your money back?

 

[b4uhad1]

I'm not too worried about $35! So yes, I get the point that it's worthless... I would just like an idea of the time period?

 

[swiftman]

Looks lie some poor attempt at arc welding on the barrel.

 

[hrf]

Any identifying proof marks may have rusted away, but remove the barrel and check the hidden underside.

Guns such as these were made from mid-19th century to 20th century.

 

[nmckenzie]

I believe percussion locks started coming into their own during the 1830s. I know the metal has seen better days, but any chance there's a maker's name on the inner surface of the lockplate? If so, and it's readable, it might go a ways in establishing age.

 

[RJay]

Those modern wood screws look nice too. It would indeed be a labor of love. It can be cleaned up. stock repaired and it would look very nice as a display piece. Shoot it? only if you have a very good medical plan, JMO Good luck with it.

 

[Hawg]

My WAG would be in the 1950's or 60's using old parts.

 

[nmckenzie]

My WAG would be in the 1950's or 60's using old parts.

Agree with you on that. The stock seems to be someone's latter day take on a mid 19th Century style. Still, once cleaned a little, the stock spruced up and stained, with perhaps a light coat of varnish added, it'd probably make a pretty neat over the fireplace hanger. As to firing it; I wouldn't.

 

[rhmc24]

Lock appears to be from a breech loading double shotgun, no drum cutout.