Smooth rifle

[Nate McKenzie]

Here is an interesting smooth rifle that came to my shop the other day. The owner asked me to post it for comments. He would like to know by who and where it was made. I think it came from somewhere near the Lehigh-Berks Co border area of Pa. Any comments or educated guesses are welcome.











Converted flintlock.


Interesting patchbox finial extending beyond hinge along lid.








Swells on front TG extension.


Remnants of bottom PB release.








Thanks for looking and your thought and comments.

[mr. no gold]

Your idea that this gun was made in that Berks/Lehigh area looks like the right call. Might be one of the Hess family, (when in doubt, blame it on the Hesses) , or an obscure Angstat. Neat rifle, in great 'as found condition.' The side plate, (plus the patchbox design) , suggests a reasonably early gun. Thanks for showing it.
Dick

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

This is a nice almost complete rifle, in very decent shape.  If it were mine, it would be getting restored.  I think 4" - 6" has been cut from the muzzle, as the forward rod pipe and wood beyond it is missing.  I'd like to see a good photo of the muzzle end. Please?

[Nate McKenzie]

Sorry Taylor. It is no longer in my possession.

[Bill of the 45th]

Delicious, clean and simple.  I have nothing to add, just love  Kind of a barn gun with a butt plate.

Bill