L. Ensmunger Possible Ohip Gunsmith

[Majorjoel]

A friend of mine is looking for info on a gunsmith named L. Ensmunger or Ensnunger. His signiture in kind of hard to read cursive is on the top flat of a percussion rifle he just acquired. The lock is signed Griffith, Cincinnati.     

[Majorjoel]

[Tom Moore]

I might be way off base without being able to see the signature but could it be Luman Munger who worked in Dubuque, Iowa around 1860 - 1882? I would really like to see the script to be sure. -Tom

[Majorjoel]

 Tom, your guy sure comes mighty close, but the signature on this barrel has the first name initial capitol L then an engraved * (star) then a capitol E, with the rest of the letters in small case.  I will not see the rifle again for a couple of weeks, but will take a picture of the signature then.  Thank you for your reply....Joel

[awol]

Captjoel, How long & what size is the barrel?  Caliber?  I like the rifle. Is it full stock?  Whats the cheek piece look like?  Thank you.

[Majorjoel]

The barrel is around 42 inches long and about 7\8's across the flats. There are definate signs that it was shortened about 3 inches at the breech end. It is a full stock made without a cheek rest and approx 36 caliber.

[longrifle]

That is a nice looking old rifle.

[Collector]

A nice percussion piece with honest wear.  The cloth at the nipple could be replaced with a cut-down piece of stem from a car tire valve.  Protects the nipple and they're good for some dry fire practice also.   Thanks for showing us this piece.