AmericanLongRifles Forums

General discussion => Antique Gun Collecting => Topic started by: twines on August 06, 2015, 12:47:43 AM

Title: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: twines on August 06, 2015, 12:47:43 AM

I recently acquired a full stocked musket in 45 cal,  It has no marks or signature.  The lock is marked Wirth Lancaster PA.  It not a great build but I believe it was constructed as a percussion rifle. I would like to find out any information available on the lock/rifle.  Here is a link to pictures.

http://s773.photobucket.com/user/twines12/library/Wirth%20Lancaster?sort=2&page=1

Thanks

Tom

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: T*O*F on August 06, 2015, 06:34:06 PM

First off, it's not a musket.

It also appears that the triggers have been replaced as they do not match the wrist profile and the trigger guard is ill fitted over them.  It may have been replaced as well.

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: okawbow on August 06, 2015, 06:42:06 PM

Looks like it was originally flintlock, and had the percussion lock added when converted.

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: twines on August 06, 2015, 08:25:45 PM

Triggers are missing a screw and fit in the profile correctly when in place.  Not sure about the conversion.  The barrel appears have been made percussion but I am better with newer stuff.  Thanks for the input.  Still looking for Wirth.

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: Dennis Glazener on August 06, 2015, 08:47:55 PM

I would not be surprised if it was a Hampshire County VA/WVA rifle. I am sure that    Avlrc can give you some information regarding the area this rifle might have originated.

I am going to move the topic over to Antique Guns Forum where it should get more views by our collector members.
Dennis

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: twines on August 06, 2015, 09:41:27 PM

Thanks Dennis.

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: Avlrc on August 07, 2015, 02:39:27 AM

The patchbox looks Virginia possible Hampshire County. The oval in the cheek piece is something seen on a lot of our rifles.

Title: Re: Wirth Lancaster PA
Post by: Hungry Horse on August 08, 2015, 05:13:27 PM

Worth was no doubt the lock maker, not the gunsmith.

   Hungry Horse