Leonard Day Swivel Breech Rifle

[bigskybound]

I recently picked up an almost mint condition, probably unfired, Leonard Day Swivel Breech rifle.  It is relatively plain compared to some examples, having unadorned Walnut stocks.  It is .54 rifle/smoothbore.

Only flaws are that someone kind of buggered a couple of screws on lockplates, I suspect while trying to tighten up action.

Since Mr. Day is apparently retiring I suspect his products will be appreciating, so I will not be shooting this one.  Any thoughts on current market value?

[Shreckmeister]

I wouldn't hesitate to shoot it.  Leonard day likely didn't make anything other than the action.  Enjoy your new rifle. 

[Dennis Glazener]

I ran across one in a gunshop in NC that was for sale at $495 IIRC. I called to buy it and they said someone had just bought it. I said I guess so at that price and they said they had it for a longtime and no one wanted it then two of us wanted it on the same day.
Dennis

[cable]

I have one of his  in 50 cal and in talking to him he remembered making it.   it is a good bit fancier.  shoots very well.   he did sell the actions to a lot of folks.

[bigskybound]

I spoke to Mr. Day on the phone and he said it was a complete rifle he built. Is sending me new screws, too.

[D. Buck Stopshere]

I sold a Leonard Day swivel barrel flintlock in 54 cal/16 gauge about ten years ago for $1,500.00; found it in a pawn shop for $500.  The owner brought it back last year, interested in selling it. I found another buyer @ $1,500.00, so its on layaway.

Seems like Track of The Wolf sold one similar for about $2,500 a few months ago. It was designed much like mine. I met Mr Day's son at the NMLRA's Southeastern Rendezvous in 2013, and he indicated then, about a year wait, and $1,600 to start for one like mine.

[Shreckmeister]

I just took note of how those panels are married to the barrels, that took a lot of talent.  It was hard to see that
on my phone.

[Old Ford2]

Hi,
The gun is worth more than you paid for it, I'm sure.
You do have a very unusual gun, that is not every day common.
Selling it will give you a profit, however you will wait a long time to get another like that.
I would keep it and strut around, knowing you have a one of a kind.
That one gun makes you ready for what ever.
Mr. Day makes mighty fine guns!
I will gladly trade you a well used CVA cheapo gun and throw in $10 
Fred

[bigskybound]

That is a mighty tempting offer, Fred.  Another gun and $10 cash money is hard to pass up.

OK, I paid $1300 + about $25 shipping for the rifle.  The sellers (who liquidate lots of gun collections) were unfamiliar - thankfully - with "L. DAY."  When I told Mr. Day over the phone what I paid for it, he laughed really loud and said I got a very good deal.

My safe only has a handful of guns that I keep as investments and this will be one of those.  I have a mighty fine TVM Tennessee flinter for shooting and hunting.

[Old Ford2]

Every once in a while we bend over and pick up lost $20 bill, or a lucky ticket for a lottery.
In your case you got that fine rifle.

Well I guess our trade is not going to happen...hungh?
All the very best!
Fred

[Tim Crosby]

 Would you show a Pic of the ramrod side please?

   Tim C.

[bigskybound]

Here ya go, Tim.

[Tim Crosby]

 Thanks, TC